Historical 
Comparison* 

ISSUED  IN  CONNECTION  WITH 
NEW  YORK'S  COMMERCIAL 
TERCENTENARY  CELE- 
BRATION by  the  LOWER 
WALL  STREET  BUSI- 
NESS MEN'S  ASSN. 


SATURDAY,  OCTOBER  THIRTY-FIRST 
NINETEEN  HUNDRED  and  FOURTEEN 


1914 

New  York's 
Commercial  Tercentenary 

UNDER  THE  AUSPICES  of  the  COMMISSION 
THE  LOWER  WALL  STREET 
BUSINESS  MEN'S 
ASSOCIATION 


A  few  Historical  events  as  given  by  Historians 
compared  with  their  actual  occurrence. 

Hy  ABRAM  WAKEMAN,  Secretary 


SATURDAY,  OCTOBER  THIRTY-FIRST 
NINETEEN  HUNDRED^WFOURTEEN 


David  T.  V alentine 


PEAKING  of  New  York's  Tea  Party,  April  20th  to  23rd,  1774. 
"Thus  ended  another  of  the  brilliant  exploits,  by  the  inhabitants 
of  Our  City,  which  attracted  the  attention  not  only  of  the  Colonists 
throughout  America,  inspiring  them  with  courage,  and  leading 
them  to  action ;  but  also  that  of  the  people  and  the  government  in 
England,  increasing  the  discontent  of  the  one,  and  the  determined 
hatred  of  the  other.  As  in  the  case  of  the  Stamp  Act  riots  (No- 
vember 1st,  1765)  and  of  the  two  days'  conflict  on  Golden  Hill 
(January  iSth  and  19th,  1770)  so  in  this,  it  was  an  affair  of  the 
people,  acting  openly,  deliberately  and  without  disguise.  They 
sought  no  concealment,  either  of  marks  or  of  darkness,  and  they  hesitated  not  in 
taking  the  responsibility,  each  for  himself,  which  their  country  seemed  to  require 
at  their  hands.  Yet  their  names  are  unknown  to  us,  with  few  exceptions,  and 
while  we  admire  the  deeds  and  the  spirit  which  prompted  them,  it  is  permitted 
us  to  say,  as  we  do  say,  'Thus  spake  New  York.'  It  would  not  have  been  so 
and  New  York  would  have  occupied  her  rightful  position  on  the  roll  of  fame. 
At  least  beside  Massachusetts  and  Virginia,  had  she  felt  less  regard  for  principles, 
and  they  more.  Without  seeking  to  establish  a  fictitious  fame  for  her  citizens 
by  an  annual  oration,  and,  notwithstanding  the  efforts  of  pedagogues,  of  high 
and  low  degree,  who  have  packed  alike  the  school  books  and  the  'standard  his- 
tories' with  the  words  of  Massachusetts  and  Virginia,  the  city  and  the  state  of 
New  York,  relying  on  the  deeds  of  their  children,  wait  patiently  for  the  justice 
which  belongs  to  them,  knowing  that  the  day  is  not  far  distant  when  every  one 
shall  be  rewarded  according  to  his  works." — David  T.  Valentine,  Clerk  of  the 
Common  Council,  1855. 

New  York  owes  a  debt  of  gratitude  to  David  T.  Valentine,  who  in  his  man- 
uals, has  done  more  in  bringing  to  light  our  City's  early  history  than  any  of  the 
great  historians.  Those  who  have  had  cause  to  make  historical  research  will  more 
fully  appreciate  this.  That  over  half  a  century  has  passed  since  same  was  written 
and  New  York  each  year  has  dropped  a  little  lower  in  the  "Roll  of  Fame"  is  not 
owing  to  lack  of  interest  but  to  the  lack  of  unity  of  purpose.  We  have  chosen 
a  few  prominent  events,  quoting  accounts  from  ten  of  our  most  popular  histories, 
using  that  of  George  Bancroft  as  the  standard. 

In  giving  the  actual  facts  same  are  from  the  official  accounts,  or  from  the 
newspapers  of  contemporary  date;  where  there  has  been  a  doubt  as  to  accuracy, 
have  confirmed  same  from  the  papers  of  other  cities.  You  will  note  how  exag- 
gerated some  accounts  are,  while  historians  have  neglected  others. 


HISTORIES   CHOSEN   FOR  COMPARISON. 

History  of  the  United  States  of  America,  by  George  Bancroft. 

A  History  of  the  United  States,  by  Edward  Channing  McLean,  Professor 
of  History  in  Harvard  University. 

American  History  and  Government,  by  James  Albert  Woodburn,  Ph.D., 
Professor  of  History  and  Politics  in  Indiana  University,  and  Thomas  Francis 
Moran,  Ph.D.,  Professor  of  History  and  Economics  in  Purdue  University. 

Essentials  in  American  History,  by  Albert  Bushnell  Hart,  Professor  of 
History,  Harvard  University. 

The  Beginnings  of  American  Revolution,  by  Ellen  Chase. 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


American  History,  by  Robert  Lewis  Ashley. 

American  History,  by  James  A.  James  and  Albert  Sanford,  Professors  in 
the  La  Crosse,  Wisconsin,  Normal  College,  1913. 

History  of  the  American  Nation,  by  Andrew  C.  McLoughlin,  Professor  of 
American  History  in  the  University  of  Michigan. 

The  Leading  Facts  of  American  History,  by  D.  H.  Montgomery. 

An  American  History,  by  David  Sayville  Muzzey,  Ph.D.,  Barnard  College, 
Columbia  University,  New  York. 

American  History  and  Government,  by  Willis  Mason  West  (Sometime) 
Professor  of  History  and  Head  of  the  Department  in  the  University  of  Minnesota. 


BATTLE  OF 
GOLDEN  HILL  AS  HISTORIANS  GIVE  IT. 

"The  Liberty  Pole  raised  by  the  people  of  New  York  in  the  park,  stood 
safely  for  nearly  three  years.  The  soldiers,  in  February,  resolved  to  cut  it  down 
and  after  three  repulses  succeeded.  The  people  assembled  in  the  fields  to  the 
number  of  three  thousand,  and  without  planning  retaliation,  expressed  abhorrence 
of  the  soldiers  as  enemies  to  the  constitution  and  to  the  peace  of  the  city.  The 
soldiers  replied  by  an  insulting  placard ;  and  on  two  successive  days  engaged  in 
an  affray  with  the  citizens,  in  which  the  latter  had  the  advantage.  The  news- 
papers loudly  celebrated  the  victory ;  and  the  Sons  of  Liberty  purchased  a  piece 
of  land  near  the  junction  of  Broadway  and  the  high  road  to  Boston  and  erected 
a  pole  strongly  guarded  by  iron  banks  and  bars  and  inscribed  'Liberty  and 
Property.'  Bancroft." 

"When  the  British  soldiers  came  they  found  a  hostile  people.  Their  presence 
stirred  up  bad  blood.  In  New  York  they  cut  down  a  liberty  pole  which  the  peo- 
ple had  erected  and  that  caused  a  riot." — Woodburn,  page  12. 

West,  Channing,  Hart,  Ashley,  James  and  Sanford,  McLoughlin,  Montgom- 
ery, Muzzey,  and  Ellen  Chase  do  not  mention,  "Golden  Hill  Battle." 

Actual  Account. 

The  Battle  of  Golden  Hill,  January  18th  and  19th,  1770,  was  a  riot  between 
citizens  and  soldiers ;  while  a  number  were  wounded  none  were  killed.  Unlike 
the  "Boston  Massacre,"  there  was  a  principle  involved.  The  Sons  of  Liberty 
were  a  "league,"  composed  of  many  of  the  best  citizens  and  devoted  to  the 
cause  of  liberty.  From  time  immemorial  a  flagstaff  called  'The  Liberty  Pole'  has 
been  the  place  where  public  notices  were  fastened.  The  Sons  of  Liberty  had  be- 
come custodian  of  such  a  pole,  erected  on  the  Common  (City  Hall  Park)  during 
the  non-importation  agreement.  They  enforced  its  enactment,  holding  numerous 
meetings  at  the  Merchants  Coffee  House,  calling  for  trial  those  accused  of 
breaking  its  terms.  In  fact  the  Sons  of  Liberty  were  the  leaders  in  all  the  pa- 
triotic demonstrations  prior  to  the  appointing  of  the  Committee  of  Correspond- 
ence, 1774.  As  early  as  1766  during  the  celebration  of  repeal  of  the  Stamp  Act, 
they  erected  a  Liberty  Pole  on  which  was  displayed  a  flag  inscribed  "The  King- 
Pitt  and  Liberty."  This  enraged  the  Loyalists  and  on  August  10th  a  party  of 
soldiers  cut  it  down.  The  pole  now  became  Casus  Belli.  A  meeting  was  held 
August  nth,  when  it  was  agreed  another  pole  should  be  raised.  There  was  a 
fight  between  citizens  and  soldiers,  quite  a  number  being  hurt.   A  strong  body  of 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


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citizens  assembled  a  few  days  later,  however,  and  a  fine  pole  was  raised  a  second 
time  to  proclaim  "The  existence  of  the  People  triumphant"  and  to  furnish  a  ral- 
lying place  for  the  Sons  of  Liberty,  September  23rd.  This  pole  was  cut  down 
during  the  night;  within  two  days  a  third  pole  was  raised,  March  18th,  1767. 
This  was  also  prostrated  on  the  19th;  another,  the  fourth,  was  raised.  The  fol- 
lowing night  an  unsuccessful  attempt  was  made  to  blow  it  up.  A  watch  was  then 
put  to  guard  it.  During  the  night  of  the  21st  the  soldiers  appeared,  but  were 
repulsed,  also  on  the  22nd  and  23rd.  The  Governor,  foreseeing  more  serious 
trouble,  forbade  the  soldiers  from  interfering  with  it.  It  was  not  until  January 
13th,  1770,  that  it  was  attacked,  by  soldiers  belonging  to  the  Sixteenth  Regiment, 
but  they  were  unsuccessful,  and  again  on  the  night  of  the  14th,  and  15th;  on  the 
night  of  the  16th,  taking  shelter  in  a  ruined  building,  which  stood  near  by,  they 
secretly  carried  on  their  design  and  were  successful,  even  in  sawing  the  pole  into 
pieces  and  in  piling  it  up  in  front  of  the  Montaignes'  door.  (Montaignes  was 
the  headquarters  of  the  Sons  of  Liberty.)  January  17th,  1770,  "a  meeting  of 
upwards  of  three  thousand  assembled  in  the  Commons"  (City  Hall  Park)  "to 
take  the  subject  into  consideration.  Resolutions  were  passed  declaring  as  ene- 
mies to  the  peace  of  the  City,  (and  therefore  subject  to  arrest),  all  the  soldiers 
below  the  rank  of  orderly  who  appeared  armed  in  the  streets,  and  all,  (armed  or 
unarmed),  who  were  found  out  of  their  barracks  after  roll  call."  The  following 
day,  the  18th,  soldiers  from  the  Sixteenth  Regiment  were  caught  posting  placards 
casting  insults  on  the  Sons  of  Liberty  and  putting  at  defiance  the  authority  of 
the  citizens.  They  were  taken  to  the  Mayor's  office ;  during  attempts  to  rescue 
them  a  severe  contest  took  place  on  Golden  Hill.  The  citizens  maintained  their 
ground  for  two  days  and  finally  triumphed.  A  large  number  were  wounded.  A 
committee  waited  on  the  Common  Council,  asking  permission  to  erect  another 
pole  in  the  place  of  that  which  had  been  destroyed.  This  was  refused,  which 
further  enraged  the  Sons  of  Liberty.  Thereupon  they  purchased  a  piece  of 
ground  nearby  the  former  site,  eleven  feet  wide  by  one  hundred  feet  deep ;  on 
February  6th  they  raised  on  it  a  mast  of  great  length,  surmounted  with  a  top 
mast  and  vane,  on  the  latter  of  which  Liberty,  in  large  letters,  was  very  conspicu- 
ous. On  March  15th  the  soldiers  attempted  to  destroy  this,  but  it  proved  too 
strong,  and  becoming  alarmed,  retreated  to  their  barracks.  The  Sons  of  Liberty 
purchased  a  house  in  Broadway,  near  the  Liberty  Pole  lately  kept  by  Mr.  Edward 
Smith,  (the  site  was  later  occupied  by  Barnum  Museum),  who  called  the  same 
Hampden  Hall.  It  was  used  as  the  place  of  meetings."  From  the  above  can 
readily  be  seen  the  great  difference  there  was  between  the  Battle  of  Golden  Hill 
and  the  "Boston  Massacre,"  both  as  to  the  manner  in  which  they  were  conducted 
and  the  class  of  citizens  taking  part.  Yet  historians  devote  pages  to  one  and  fail 
to  mention  the  other.  Boston  expended  $10,000  in  the  erection  of  a  Monument 
in  Commemoration  of  the  so-called  "Boston  Massacre,"  but  to  the  honor  of  the 
Massachusetts  Historical  Society  they  strongly  protested  against  it.  As  John 
Adams  said,  "The  plain  English  is  that  they  were  probably  a  motlev  rabble  of 
saucy  boys,  negroes,  mulattoes,  and  outlandish  jack-tars,  and  why  should  we  scru- 
ple to  call  such  a  set  of  people  a  mob,  I  cannot  conceive,  unless  the  name  is  too 
respectable  for  them." 


Alexander  McDougal's  Reception — February  10th,  1770. 

"Many  of  my  friends  who  have  honoured  me  with  their  visits  since  my  op- 
pressive confinement  in  this  place,  have  advised  me,  as  I  intended  to  devote  a 
considerable  part  of  my  time  to  do  justice  to  the  public  in  the  cause  for  which  I  am 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


imprisoned,  to  appoint  an  hour  from  which  it  will  be  most  convenient  for  me  to 
see  my  friends ;  I  do  therefore  hereby  notify  them  I  shall  be  glad  of  the  honour 
of  their  company  from  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  till  six.  I  am,  gentlemen, 
with  great  esteem  and  gratitude ."  ^  yery  humMe 

Alexander  McDougall, 

February  10,  1770. 


March  5th,  1770. 
THE  BOSTON  MASSACRE. 
George  Bancroft's  Account,  page  372. 

The  evening  of  the  fifth  came.  The  young  moon  was  shining  in  a  cloudless 
winter  sky,  and  its  light  was  increased  by  a  new  fallen  snow.  Parties  of  soldiers 
were  driving  about  the  streets,  making  a  parade  of  valour,  challenging  resistance, 
and  striking  the  inhabitants  indiscriminately  with  sticks  or  sheathed  cutlasses.  A 
band  which  poured  out  from  Murray's  barracks  in  Brattle  street,  arrived  with 
clubs,  cutlasses  and  bayonets,  provoked  resistance  and  a  fray  ensued.  Ensign 
Maul  at  the  gate  of  the  barrack  yard  cried  to  the  soldiers,  "Turn  out,  and  I  will 
stand  by  you,  kill  them,  stick  them,  knock  them  down ;  run  your  bayonets  through 
them."  One  soldier  after  another  leveled  a  firelock,  and  threatened  to  make  a 
line  through  the  crowd.  Just  before  nine,  as  an  officer  crossed  King  street,  a 
barber's  lad  cried  after  him,  "There  goes  a  mean  fellow  who  hath  not  paid  my 
master  for  dressing  his  hair;"  upon  which  the  sentinel  on  the  westerly  end  of 
the  custom  house,  on  the  corner  of  King  street  and  Exchange  lane,  left  his  post 
and  with  his  musket  gave  the  boy  a  strike  on  the  head  that  made  him  stagger  and 
cry  for  pain,  (and  so  on  for  four  pages).  "The  word  'fire,'  given  by  Preston;  he 
stepped  a  little  on  the  side,  and  Montgomery  shot  Attucks,  who  at  the  time  was 
quietly  leaning  on  a  long  stick.  The  people  immediately  began  to  move  off.  'Don't 
fire,'  said  Langford,  the  watchman,  to  Kilroe,  looking  him  full  in  the  face,  yet  he 
did  so,  and  Samuel  Gray,  who  was  standing  next  to  Langford,  with  his  hands  in 
his  bosom,  fell  lifeless.  The  rest  fired  slowly  in  succession  on  the  people  who  were 
for  safety."  etc.  Three  persons  were  killed,  among  those.  Attucks,  the 
mulatto.  Eight  were  wounded,  two  of  them  mortally ;  of  the  eleven,  not  more 
than  one  had  had  any  share  in  the  disturbance.  When  the  men  returned  to  take 
up  the  dead,  the  infuriated  soldiers  prepared  to  fire  again,  but  were  checked  by 
Preston,  while  the  Twenty-ninth  Regiment  appeared  under  arms  in  King  Street. 
"This  is  our  time,"  cried  the  soldiers  of  the  Fourteenth  and  dogs  were  never 
more  greedy  for  their  prey,"  etc.  There  were  eight  pages  devoted  to  this  by 
Bancroft.  "The  event  was  therefore  commemorated  in  Boston,  as  a  victory 
for  freedom  until  the  adoption  of  the  Declaration  of  Independence,  July  4th, 
1776,"  Channing,  pages  129  to  131.  There  are  long  accounts  by  West,  Ashley. 
San  ford,  McLoughlin,  Montgomery,  Muzzey,  and  Woodburn  alone  gives  a  fair 
account.  Ellen  Chase  in  "Beginning  of  the  American  Revolution"  devotes 
seventy-five  pages  to  the  Boston  Massacre.  "In  March,  1770,  there  was  a  fight 
between  the  troops  and  the  populace  in  Boston,  in  which  five  persons  were  killed. 
Although  the  name  "Boston  Massacre"  was  applied  to  the  unfortunate  affair.  Tohn 
Adams  was  so  far  from  sympathy  with  the  populace  that  he  defended  the  Com- 
mander of  the  troops,  who  was  acquitted.  Two  of  the  soldiers  who  fired  without 
orders,  under  great  provocation,  were  convicted  of  manslaughter  and  eventually 
were  punished."   Hart,  page  142. 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


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Actual  Facts. 

New  York  Gazette  and  Mercury. 
Boston,  March  8th,  1770. 

"Monday  evening,  the  fifth  of  March,  several  of  the  soldiers  of  the  Twenty- 
ninth  Regiment  were  very  abusive  in  the  street  with  their  cutlasses,  striking  a 
number  of  persons;  about  nine  o'clock  some  young  lads,  going  through  a  narrow 
alley  that  leads  from  Cornhill  to  Brattle  street,  met  three  soldiers — two  of  them 
had  drawn  cutlasses  and  one  with  a  pair  of  tongs,  who  stopped  the  lads,  and 
made  a  strike  at  them  which  they  returned,  having  sticks  in  their  hands.  One 
of  the  lads  was  wounded  in  the  arm ;  presently  ten  or  twelve  soldiers  came  from 
the  barracks  with  their  cutlasses  drawn,  but  not  being  able  to  go  through  the 
alley  they  went  down  toward  the  square  and  same  up  to  Cornhill,  when  a  scuffle 
ensued.  Some,  seeing  the  naked  swords,  ran  and  set  the  bells  ringing.  This 
collected  the  people,  who  at  length  made  the  soldiers  return  to  their  barracks. 
The  people  then  dispersed,  and  returning  home,  some  went  up  to  Exchange  Lane, 
at  the  corner  of  which  was  a  sentry  box,  nigh  to  the  Custom  House.  The  sen- 
tinel, upon  the  people  coming  into  King  street,  went  from  his  box  and  stood  on 
the  steps  of  the  Custom  House  door.  Whether  a  signal  was  made,  or  a  messen- 
ger sent,  we  are  not  able  at  present  to  say ;  but  a  party  of  seven  men,  with  an 
officer,  came  from  the  main  guard  over  to  the  sentinel  and  formed  in  a  half  circle, 
facing  the  fourth  side  of  King  street,  and  loaded  and  pointed  their  guns  breast 
high  to  the  people,  who  had  made  a  stop  in  the  middle  of  the  street,  not  imagining 
any  danger;  soon  after,  the  word  fire  was  heard,  upon  which  one  gun  went  off, 
and  in  a  second  or  two  others,  so  on  to  the  last,  which  killed  and  wounded  the 
following  persons,  viz. :" 

"This  most  shocking  transaction  alarmed  the  people.  The  bells  were  set  ring- 
ing and  all  the  inhabitants  that  were  able  assembled  at  the  place  where  the  mur- 
der was  committed,  while  some  were  taking  care  of  the  dead  and  wounded  and 
others  were  in  a  consultation  what  to  do  in  this  dreadful  circumstance.  The 
Twenty-ninth  Regiment  was  under  arms  and  drew  up  King  street. 

His  honor,  the  Lieutenant  Governor,  came  immediately  up  to  the  Town 
House ;  and  there,  with  some  of  the  Magistrate's  Council  and  a  number  of  Civil 
Magistrates,  requested  that  they  would  let  the  matter  subside  for  the  night,  prom- 
ising to  do  all  in  his  power,  that  justice  should  be  done  and  law  have  its  force.  The 
regiment  being  under  arms,  the  inhabitants  insisted  that  the  soldiers  should  be 
ordered  to  their  barracks  first,  which  was  done,  then  the  people  returned  to  their 
dwellings  at  about  one  o'clock ;  at  about  three  o'clock,  Captain  Preston,  who  com- 
manded the  party,  was  committed  to  goal,  and  the  next  day  the  soldiers  that 
fired  were  committed." 


The  Official  Account  of  the  Boston  Massacre. 

"A  short  narrative  of  the  horrid  massacre  in  Boston,  perpetrated  on  the 
evening  of  the  fifth  day  of  March,  1770,  by  the  soldiers  of  the  Twenty-ninth 
Regiment,  which,  with  the  Fourteenth  Regiment,  were  quartered  there,  with  some 
observations  on  the  state  of  things  prior  to  that  catastrophe,  printed  by  the  order 
of  the  Town  of  Boston,  1770.  Then  follows  the  official  citation.  The  testimony 
was  taken  March  17th  and  19th,  about  ten  days  after  the  affair.   The  report  con- 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


taining  a  narration  of  the  late  massacre  is  submitted  to  the  Town,  in  the  name  of 
the  Committee,  signed  James  Bowdoin.  The  committee  were  the  Honorable, 
James  Bowdoin,  Dr.  Joseph  Warren  and  Samuel  Pemberton,  Attest  William 
Cowper,  Town  Clerk." 

"The  actors  in  the  dreadful  tragedy  were  a  party  of  soldiers  commanded  by 
Captain  Preston,  of  the  Twenty-ninth  Regiment.  This  party,  including  the  Cap- 
tain, consisted  of  eight,  who  were  committed  to  the  goal.  Their  depositions  in 
this  affair,  which  mentions  that  several  guns  were  fired  at  the  same  time  from  the 
Custom  House,  before  which  this  shocking  scene  was  exhibited.  It  seems  at 
first  one  gun  was  fired,  then  two,  then  three,  immediately  after  five  were  dis- 
charged, from  the  balcony  of  the  windows  of  the  Custom  House.  The  flashes  that 
appeared  from  on  the  left  hand  were  higher  than  the  right  hand  flashes."  The 
depositions  of  the  witnesses  are  then  given.  The  following  is  the  finding  of  the 
Committee :  "The  cause  which  gave  occasion  to  the  melancholy  event  of  the 
evening  seems  to  be  this.  A  difference  having  happened  near  Mr.  Gray's  rope- 
walk,  between  a  soldier  and  a  man  belonging  to  it,  the  soldier  challenged  the 
rope-walker  to  a  boxing  match.  The  challenge  was  accepted  by  one  of  them,  and 
the  soldier  worsted.  He  ran  to  the  barracks  in  the  neighborhood,  and  returned 
with  several  of  his  companions.  The  fray  was  renewed  and  the  soldiers  driven 
off.  They  soon  returned  with  recruits  and  were  again  worsted.  This  happened 
several  times,  till  at  length  a  considerable  body  of  the  soldiers  collected  and  they 
were  also  driven  off.  The  rope-walkers  having  been  joined  by  their  brethren  of 
the  contiguous  rope-walks.  By  this  time  Mr.  Gray  being  alarmed,  interposed,  and 
with  the  assistance  of  some  gentlemen  prevented  further  disturbance.  To  satisfy 
the  soldiers,  and  punish  the  man  who  had  been  the  occasion  of  the  first  difference, 
and  as  an  example  to  the  rest,  he  turned  him  out  of  his  service,  and  waited  on 
Colonel  Dalrumple,  the  commanding  officer  of  the  troops,  and  with  him  concerted 
manners  for  preventing  further  mischief.  Although  this  ended  the  affair,  it 
made  a  strong  impression  on  the  soldiers  in  general,  who  thought  the  honor  of 
the  regiment  concerned,  to  take  revenge  upon  the  inhabitants  of  the  town  indis- 
criminately, and  this  was  done  in  the  evening  of  the  fifth  instant  or  soon  after,  as 
appears  by  the  deposition  of  the  following  persons.  There  were  five  killed  and 
six  wounded.  On  March  19th,  1770,  the  report  was  read  and  considered  upon, 
voted  unanimously  that  the  same  be  accepted.  That  it  be  immediately  printed 
and  copies  sent  to  the  Right  Honorable  Isaac  Barro,  Esq.,  one  of  his  Majesty's 
most  honorable  Privy  Council ;  Thomas  Pownell,  Esq.,  late  Governor  of  Massa- 
chusetts ;  William  Ballan,  Esq.,  Agent  for  the  House  of  Representatives ;  Ben- 
jamin Franklin,  Esq.,  L.L.D.,  and  Barton  Trecthick,  Esq.,  a  member  of  Parlia- 
ment for  the  City  of  London.   Attest  William  Cowper,  Town  Clerk." 

Through  the  whole  of  the  investigation  of  the  Town,  there  is  not  one  pa- 
triotic thought  expressed,  neither  liberty,  nor  rights  involved.  It  was  as  John 
Adams  stated,  "A  mob  out  for  a  fight." 


Supplement  to  Parker's  New  York  Gazette. 

Being  an  account  of  the  Boston  Massacre,  at  Boston. 
March  12th,  1770. 

"Our  readers  will  doubtlessly  expect  a  circumstantial  account  of  the  tragical 
affair  on  last  Monday  night,  but  we  hope  they  will  excuse  our  not  being  so  par- 
ticular as  we  should  have  been,  had  we  not  seen  that  the  town  was  intending  an 
inquiry  and  full  representation  thereof." 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


9 


The  Boston  Tea  Party,  December  16,  1773. 
Historian's  Account. 

There  has  been  no  event  to  which  historians  have  given  so  much  space,  as 
the  above  "Tea  Party."  George  Bancroft,  devotes  seven  pages.  Ellen  Chase,  in 
"The  Beginning's  of  the  American  Revolution,"  not  only  gives  the  names  of 
those  who  took  part,  but  their  age,  how  they  were  dressed,  where  they  obtained 
the  soot  to  disguise  their  faces,  what  each  said  before  starting,  and  the  story 
they  told  on  their  return,  in  all  fifty-two  pages  of  her  work  is  taken  by  this  event. 
Most  historians  give  an  account  very  similar  to  that  of  Bancroft.  A  very  inter- 
esting book  called,  "Tea  Leaves,"  is  devoted  to  this  occurrence.  Edward  L. 
Pierce's  "Recollection,  as  a  Source  of  History,"  in  the  proceedings  of  the  Massa- 
chusetts Historical  Society,  for  March,  1896.  "No  one  of  its  (the  tea  party's) 
numbers  are  known  by  satisfactory  proof." 

"It  had  been  dark  for  more  than  an  hour.  A  delay  of  a  few  hours  would 
place  the  tea  under  the  protection  of  the  Admiral  at  the  Castle.  The  church  (Old 
South)  in  which  they  met  was  dimly  lighted  by  candles.  When  at  a  quarter 
before  six,  Rotch  appeared  and  related  that  the  Governor  would  not  grant  him  a 
pass,  because  his  ship  was  not  properly  cleared.  As  soon  as  he  had  finished 
his  report,  loud  shouts  were  uttered ;  then  Samuel  Adams  rose  and  gave  the  word, 
"This  meeting  can  do  nothing  more  to  save  the  Country."  On  the  instant  a  cry 
was  heard  at  the  porch,  the  war-whoops  resounded;  a  body  of  men  forty  or  fifty 
in  number,  clad  in  blankets  as  Indians,  each  holding  a  hatchet,  passed  by  the  door, 
and  encouraged  by  Samuel  Adams,  Hancock,  and  others,  and  increased  on  the 
way  to  a  near  two  hundred,  marched  two  by  two  to  Griffin's  Wharf,  posted 
guards  to  prevent  the  intrusion  of  spies,  took  possession  of  the  three  tea-ships, 
and  in  about  three  hours  three  hundred  and  forty  chests  of  tea,  being  the  whole 
quantity  imported,  were  emptied  into  the  bay,  without  the  least  injury  to  other 
property.  "All  things  were  conducted  with  great  order,  decency,  and  in  perfect 
submission  to  Government."  The  people  who  looked  on  were  so  still,  that  the 
noise  of  breaking  open  the  tea-chests  was  plainly  heard.  After  the  work  was 
done  the  town  became  as  quiet  as  if  it  had  been  holy  time." — Bancroft,  page  456. 

Actual  Account. 

Minutes  Committee  of  Correspondence 
Boston  Tea  Party,  Official. 

"The  following  is  a  copy  of  what  was  wrote  to  Thomas  Whifflin  and  George 
Claymore,  Esq.,  of  Philadelphia,  and  Philip  Livingston  and  Samuel  Broome, 
Esq.,  of  New  York,  by  Mr.  Paul  Revere,  who  was  sent  express  for  that  pur- 
pose, viz : 

"Boston,  December  17th,  1773. 

"Gentlemen : 

"Yesterday  we  had  a  greater  meeting  of  the  Body  than  ever,  the  country 
coming  in  from  Twenty  miles  round,  and  many  steps  were  taken  that  were  prac- 
ticable for  entering  the  tea,  the  moment  it  was  known  out  of  doors  that  Mr. 
Rotch  could  not  obtain  a  Pass  for  his  ship  by  the  Castle,  a  number  of  people 
huzzaed  in  the  streets  and  in  a  very  little  time  every  ounce  of  tea  on  board  of  the 
Captains,  Hall,  Bruce,  and  Coffin  were  immersed  in  the  bay  without  the  least 


10 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


Notification.  : -  , 

THE  Town  having  at  a  latcMceting  appointed  aCofflJmitt<re<' 
of  Correfpondencc  "  to  Irate  the  Rights  of  thcCtflonifts, 
and  of  this  Province  in  Particular,  as  Men,  as  Chriftian*,  and 
as  Subjects  ;  and  to  communicate  and  publilh  the  famx:  to  the 
fcveral.Towns  in  this  Province,  and  to  theWorld,  as  tfteSenfc 
of  thYs  Town,  with  the  Infringements  and  Violations  thereof, 
that  have  been,  or  from  Time  to  Time  may  be  made — Alfo 
requeuing  of  each  Tdwn  a  free  .Communication  of  their  Sen* 
timents  on  this  Subject  and  the  Selectmen  having  been  in- 
formed by  the  Chairman  of  fiid  Committee,  that  they  arc  ready 

"  to  make  Report  The  freeholders,  and  other  Inhabitants  of 

the  Town  of  Bofton,  qualified  as  the  Law  directs,  are  hereby 
notified  to  meet  at  Fnneuil-WzW,  'fin  Friday  the  20th  Day'of 
November  Infhtnr,  at  Ten  o'clock  beforeNoon,  then  and  there 
to  receive  and  act  upon  fatd  Report,  and  fueh  other  Matters 
and  Things  as  may  properly  come  under  the  Consideration  of 
the  Town,  when  thus  allcmblrd  according  to  Law. 

Bo/Ion,  Nov.  1  6,  177:..      Bj  Order  of  the  Sekcl-Men, 

William  Cooper,  Toivti-Ckt  L 


1772 — Beginning  of  the  American  Revolution 

(Reproduced  from  a  photographic  copy  of  the  original.  See 
page  16  for  formation  of  Boston  Committee  of  Correspondence) . 


injury  to  private  property.  The  spirit  of  the  people  on  this  occasion  surprised  all 
parties,  who  viewed  the  scene.  We  conceived  it  our  duty  to  afford  you  in  the 
most  early  advice  of  this  interesting  event  by  Express,  which  departing  immedi- 
ately obliges  us  to  conclude."       In  the  name  of  the  Committee> 

Samuel  Adams. 
(This  zvas  written  by  Samuel  Adams.) 

"P.  S. — The  other  vessel,  viz.  Capt.  Louing,  belonging  to  Mess.  Clark,  was  by 
the  Act  of  God  cast  on  shore  on  the  beach  of  Cape  Cod." 

Boston  Tea  Party,  Actual  Account. 
"New  York  Weekly  Journal." 
December  27th,  1774. 

Boston,  December  16th.  "The  committee  assembled  at  Old  South  Meeting 
House.   Having  met  on  Thursday  morning,  ten  o'clock,  they  sent  for  Mr.  Rotch, 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


11 


(owner  of  the  ship  'Dartmouth')  and  asked  him  if  he  had  been  to  the  collector 
and  demanded  a  clearance?  He  said  he  had,  but  the  collector  said  that  he  could 
not  consistently  with  his  duty,  give  him  a  clearance  till  all  the  dutiable  articles 
were  out  of  his  ship.  They  then  demanded  of  him  whether  he  had  protested 
against  the  collector,  he  said  he  had  not.  They  ordered  him,  (by  the  Act,  any  du- 
tiable goods  on  board  a  vessel  after  lying  20  days  in  harbor,  became  liable  to  the 
payment  of  duties).  The  people  waited  till  the  last  day  and  in  a  few  hours  the 
ship — to  secure  the  duties  then  payable — was  to  have  been  delivered  to  the  cus- 
tody of  the  man  of  war  upon  his  peril,  to  give  immediate  directions  to  the  Captain 
to  get  his  ship  ready  for  sea  that  day,  enter  a  protest  immediately  against  the 
Custom  House  and  then  proceed  directly  to  the  Governor,  (who  was  at  Milton, 
7  miles  off)  and  demand  a  pass  for  his  ship  to  go  by  the  castle.  They  then  ad- 
journed to  3  o'clock,  p.  m.,  to  wait  Mr.  Rotch's  return.  Having  met  according 
to  adjournment.  These  were  the  fullest  meetings  ever  known,  (it  was  reckoned 
that  there  were  two  thousand  men  from  the  country ) .  They  waited  patiently 
till  about  five  o'clock,  when  finding  that  Mr.  Rotch  did  not  return,  they  began  to 
be  very  uneasy,  called  for  a  dissolution  of  the  meeting  and  finally  obtained  a 
vote  for  it.  But  the  more  moderate  part  of  the  meeting,  fearing  what  would  be 
the  consequences,  begged  that  they  would  reconsider  their  vote,  and  wait  till  Mr. 
Rotch's  return,  for  this  reason  they  ought  to  do  everything  in  their  power  to  send 
the  tea  back  according  to  their  resolves.  A  vote  then  passed  to  remain  together 
one  hour  longer,  and  about  three-quarters  of  an  hour  Mr.  Rotch  returned.  His 
answer  from  the  Governor  was  that  he  could  not  get  a  pass  till  the  ship  was 
cleared  by  the  Custom  House.  The  people  immediately,  as  if  one  voice  called 
for  a  dissolution,  which  being  obtained,  they  repaired  to  Griffin's  Wharf,  where 
the  tea  vessels  lay,  proceeded  to  fix  tackle,  and  hoist  the  tea  upon  the  deck,  cut 
the  chests  to  pieces,  and  threw  the  tea  over  the  side.  (There  were  two  ships  and 
a  brig.  Capts.  Hall,  Bruce  and  Coffin,  each  vessel  having  114  chests  of  tea  on 
board.)  They  began  upon  the  two  ships  first,  as  they  had  nothing  on  board  but 
the  tea,  then  proceeded  to  the  brig,  which  had  been  hauled  to  the  wharf,  but  the 
day  before,  and  had  but  a  small  part  of  the  cargo  out.  The  Captain  of  the  brig 
begged  they  would  not  begin  with  his  vessel,  as  the  tea  was  covered  with  goods, 
belonging  to  the  different  merchants  in  Town.  They  told  him  the  tea  they  wanted 
and  the  tea  they  would  have,  but  if  he^would  go  into  his  cabin  quietly,  not  one 
article  of  his  goods  would  be  hurt.  They  immediately  proceeded  to  remove  the 
goods  and  then  to  dispose  of  the  tea.  It  was  expected  that  the  men  of  war  would 
have  interfered  as  all  Captains  and  other  officers  were  ordered  on  board  their 
ships  before  night,  and  the  day  before  there  were  six  dozen  of  lanthorns  sent  on 
board,  the  Admiral's  ship,  the  'King  Fisher,'  and  several  armed  schooners  were 
rigged  and  fitted  for  sea,  and  the  'Gaspee'  armed  brig  arrived  that  day  from 
Rhode  Island,  but  the  people  were  determined.  It  is  to  be  observed  that  they 
are  extremely  careful  that  not  any  of  the  tea  should  be  stolen,  so  kept  a  good 
look  out  and  detected  one  man,  filling  his  pockets,  whom  they  treated  very 
roughly,  by  tearing  his  coat  off  his  back,  and  driving  him  up  the  wharf  through 
thousands  of  people  who  cuffed  and  kicked  him  as  he  passed." 


New  York,  December  27th. 

"We  have  the  inexpressible  satisfaction  in  acquainting  our  Readers  that  is  de- 
termined on  the  arrival  of  the  ship  'Nancy,'  Captain  Lockyer  with  the  tea  from 
the  Honorable  East  India  Company.  The  commander  will  be  made  acquainted 
with  the  Sentiments  of  the  Inhabitants  respecting  the  Shipping  of  that  Article, 
which  will  undoubtedly  occasion  his  return  with  it  in  Statu  quo  to  England." 


12 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


Boston  Tea  Party, 

Pennsylvania  Gazette,  Friday  evening  Five  O'Clock, 
December  14th,  1773. 

"The  people  immediately  as  with  one  voice  called  for  dissolution,  which, 
having  obtained,  they  repaired  to  Griffin's  Wharf,  where  tea  vessels  lay,  proceeded 
to  fix  tackles  and  hoisted  the  tea  upon  deck,  cut  the  chests  to  pieces  and  threw 
the  tea  over  the  side.  There  were  two  ships  and  a  brig,  Captains  Hall,  Bruce 
and  Coffin.  Each  vessel  having  114  chests  of  tea  on  board;  they  began  upon  the 
two  ships  first  as  they  had  nothing  aboard  but  the  tea,  then  proceeded  to  the  brig, 
which  had  been  hauled  to  the  Wharf  but  the  day  before.  The  Captain  of  the 
brig  begged  they  would  not  begin  with  his  vessel,  as  the  tea  was  covered  with 
goods  belonging  to  different  merchants  in  town.  They  told  him  the  tea  was 
wanted,  and  the  tea  they  would  have ;  but  if  he  would  go  into  his  cabin  quietly  not 
one  article  of  his  goods  should  be  hurt.  They  immediately  proceeded  to  remove 
the  goods  and  then  to  dispose  of  the  tea." 

"Pennsylvania  Journal"  and  "New  York  Advertiser,"  same  account  as  above. 

From  "Tea  Leaves." 

"Protest  of  Captain  James  Bruce  of  the  Eleanor  against  the  destroyers  of 
the  tea.  That  about  the  hour  of  6  or  7  o'clock  in  the  same  evening  about  one 
thousand  unknown  people  came  down  the  said  wharf  and  a  number  of  them  came 
on  board  the  said  ship,  some  being  dressed  as  Indians  and  they  having  violently 
broke  open  the  hatches,  hoisted  up  said  chests  of  tea  upon  deck,  and  then  and 
there,  stove  and  threw  the  said  chests  with  their  contents  into  the  water  where 
the  whole  was  lost  and  destroyed." 
Signers.  "James  Bruce, 

"James  Bruce,  Jr., 
"John  (X)  Turner, 

"Jno.  Morris,  Notary  Public,  nth  January,  1774." 

Extract  from  Log  Book 
Of  the  Dartmouth. 

"Thursday,  December  16th.  This  twenty-four  hours'  rainy  weather,  termi- 
nating this  day.  Between  six  and  seven  o'clock  this  evening  came  down  to  the 
wharf  a  body  of  about  one  thousand  people,  among  them  were  a  number  dressed 
and  whooping  like  Indians.  They  came  on  board  the  ship,  and  after  warning 
myself  and  the  custom  house  officers  to  get  out  of  the  way,  they  undid  the 
hatches  and  went  down  the  hold,  where  was  eighty  whole  and  thirty  half  chests 
of  tea,  which  they  hoisted  upon  deck  and  cut  the  chests  to  pieces,  and  hove  the 
tea  all  overboard,  where  it  was  damaged  and  lost." 

"A  letter  addressed  to  George  Dudley,  Esq.,  enclosing  a  Boston  newspaper 
dated  Boston,  New  England,  17th  December,  1773,  gives  a  long  account  of  the 
tea  party,  but  makes  no  mention  of  any  Indians." 

"Traits  of  the  Tea  Party,"  being  a  Memoir  of  George  R.  T.  Harris. 

One  of  the  Last  of  its  Survivors,  by  a 
Bostonian,  Bent.  Bussey  Thatcher. 

I835- 

Page  179.  "We  find  no  reason  to  believe  that  the  number  of  persons  who 
assumed  the  Indians'  disguise  on  this  occasion  was  very  considerable,  probably 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


13 


not  more  than  fifteen  or  twenty.  A  good  many  joined  in  the  act  of  breaking 
up  the  boxes,  however,  who  disguised  themselves  in  the  best  manner  they  could." 

Page  263.  "This  commander  acted  as  a  sort  of  interpreter,  too,  for  the 
persons,  apparently  some  five  or  six  aboard  each  vessel,  who  especially  assumed 
the  Indian's  guise.  These  were,  no  doubt,  (who  ever  they  were)  among  the  prin- 
cipal immediate  directors  of  the  whole  affair."  This  coincides  with  the  first 
accounts  given  by  the  contemporary  newspapers.  That  published  in  the  New 
York  Weekly  Journal,  whose  account  was  dated  Boston,  May  16th,  the  evening 
of  the  occurrence.  The  Pennsylvania  Gazette,  of  December  24th,  does  not  make 
any  mention  of  Indians.  The  log  book  of  the  Dartmouth  says  a  "number  dressed 
and  whooping  like  Indians."  The  Massachusetts  Gazette,  published  a  week  after 
the  occurrence,  is  the  first  to  give  the  Indian  story,  "a  number  of  brave  and 
resolute  men  dressed  in  the  Indian  manner  approached  near  the  door  of  the 
assembly  and  gave  a  war  whoop,"  etc. 


New  York  Tea  Party. 

As  given  by  Historians. 

Bancroft's  Version.  "On  the  day  on  which  the  House  of  Commons  were 
voting  not  to  repeal  the  duty  on  tea,  the  people  of  New  York  sent  back  the  tea 
ships  which  had  arrived  the  day  before  and  eighteen  chests  of  tea  found  on  board 
another  vessel  were  hoisted  on  deck  and  emptied  into  the  slip." 

"At  New  York,  Annapolis  and  Philadelphia  the  authorities  were  intimidated 
into  sending  the  tea  ships  back  to  England." — West. 

"The  vessels  bringing  tea  to  Philadelphia  and  New  York  were  allowed  by  the 
authorities  to  leave  port  without  landing  their  cargoes." — Channing. 

"In  Philadelphia,  New  York,  and  other  places,  upon  the  arrival  of  the  tea 
ships,  they  were  sent  back  without  unloading." — Hart,  page  145. 

The  Tea  Tax.  "At  Philadelphia  and  later  at  New  York  the  vessels  were 
sent  back  to  England." — Ashley. 

"Cargoes  were  likewise  despatched  to  New  York,  Philadelphia  and  Charles- 
ton, but  they  were  sent  back  or  destroyed." — Montgomery. 

"The  cargoes  of  tea  which  the  East  India  Company's  ships  brought  over  to 
American  ports  were  rudely  received.  Philadelphia  and  New  York  refused  to 
let  the  ships  land." — Muzzey,  page  120. 

No  mention,  Woodburn  and  Moran. 

No  mention,  McLougiilin. 

"In  New  York  and  Philadelphia  cargoes  were  sent  back." — James  Alten, 
James  and  Albert  Hart  Sanford. 

New  York  Tea  Party,  Actual  Account. 

The  understanding  between  the  colonies  being  vessels  with  tea  should  not  be 
allowed  to  come  to  their  wharfs,  as  after  being  in  port  for  twenty  days  goods  on 
which  duty  had  not  paid  were  seized  and  sold  for  account  of  the  Government. 
April  18th,  1774.  "The  tea  ship  'Nancy,'  Captain  Lockyer,  arrived  off  Sandy 
Hook,  she  having  suffered  from  violent  storm  on  April  2nd,  having  lost  her 
mizzen  mast  and  anchor,  and  her  main  top  mast  sprung."  The  pilots  of  the 
port  refused  to  bring  her  further  than  the  Hook,  where  she  was  taken  in  custody 
of  Committee  of  fourteen  or  fifteen  of  the  Sons  of  Liberty.  The  Committee 
permitted  the  Captain  to  visit  the  city  in  their  charge  in  order  to  procure  supplies 
for  the  repair  of  his  ship.    They  were  met  at  the  wharf  by  a  large  number  of 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


citizens.  Mr.  White,  the  consignee,  refused  to  receive  the  cargo  and  advised 
its  return  to  Europe,  having  nearly  completed  the  outfit  of  his  vessel,  which  was 
still  in  charge  of  the  Committee." 

The  following  hand  bill  was  posted  throughout  the  city.  "To  the  Public : 
The  sense  of  the  city  relative  to  the  landing  of  the  East  India  Company's  tea  being 
signified  to  Captain  Lockyer  by  the  Committee,  nevertheless  it  is  the  desire  of  a 
number  of  citizens  that  at  his  departure  from  hence,  he  shall  see,  with  his  own 
eyes,  their  detestation  of  the  measures  pursued  by  the  Ministry,  and  the  India 
Company,  to  enslave  this  country.  This  will  be  declared  by  the  Convention  of 
the  People  at  his  dparture  from  this  city,  which  will  be  on  next  Saturday  morning 
at  9  o'clock,  when,  no  doubt,  every  friend  to  this  country  will  attend.  The  bells 
will  give  the  notice  an  hour  before  he  embarks  from  Murray's  Wharf.  New 
York,  April  2ist,  1774.    By  order  of  the  Committee." 

April  22nd.  "The  ship  'London,'  Captain  Chambers,  arrived.  The  Vigilance 
Committee  of  the  Sons  had  received  information  from  Philadelphia  that  eighteen 
chests  of  tea  were  aboard  this  ship,  and  although  Captain  Chambers  assured  the 
pilots  he  had  no  tea  on  board,  the  ship  was  brought  too  off  the  Hook  and  a  sub- 
committee visited  her.  The  Captain  persisted  in  his  denial,  and  his  manifest  and 
cockets  gave  no  evidence  against  him.  The  ship  was  permitted  to  come  up  to  the 
city,  the  sub-committee  being  still  on  board,  and  on  reaching  the  wharf  about  4 
p.  m.  the  entire  Committee  went  on  board  and  ordered  the  hatches  to  be  opened, 
declaring  their  conviction  that  tea  was  on  board,  and  that  every  package  should  be 
opened,  if  necessary,  in  order  to  find  it.  Finding  it  impossible  to  evade  the  Com- 
mittee, the  Captain  at  length  acknowledged  that  he  had  eighteen  chests  on  board 
belonging  to  himself,  and  gave  up  the  cocket  which  he  had  previously  concealed. 
The  Committee,  the  owners  of  the  ship,  and  the  Captain,  then  returned  to 
Fraunces  Tavern,  leaving  the  people  on  the  wharf,  but,  after  the  most  mature 
deliberation,  it  was  determined  to  communicate  the  whole  sense  of  the  matter  to 
the  people,  who  were  convened  near  the  ship,  which  was  accordingly  done.  The 
'Mohawks'  were  prepared  to  do  their  duty  at  a  proper  hour,  but  the  body  of  the 
people  were  so  impatient  that  before  it  arrived  a  number  of  them  entered  the 
ship  about  8  p.  m.,  took  out  the  tea  which  was  at  hand,  broke  the  cases,  and 
started  their  contents  into  the  river  without  doing  any  damage  to  the  ship  or 
cargo.  Several  persons  of  reputation  were  placed  below  to  keep  tally  and  about 
the  companion  to  prevent  ill-disposed  persons  from  going  below  the  dock.  At  10 
o'clock  the  people  all  dispersed  in  good  order,  but  in  great  wrath  with  the  Cap- 
tain ;  and  it  was  not  without  some  risk  of  his  life  that  he  escaped."  "No  disguise 
of  any  kind  was  adopted  or  worn  to  shelter  the  person  of  those  who  participated 
in  the  work  from  observation  or  identification.  It  was  a  work  which  the  public 
weal  required  and  it  was  done  openly  by  the  parties  interested,  and  in  the  pres- 
ence of  all  who  saw  fit  to  witness  it." 

"At  length  (April  23rd,  1774),  the  day  appointed  to  return  Captain  Lockyer 
to  his  ship,  arrived,  and  the  people,  pursuant  to  previous  notices,  assembled  in 
greater  numbers  than  ever  before,  to  escort  him  to  the  wharf  and  to  prove  to 
him  and  through  him,  to  the  Crown,  the  general  feeling  of  opposition  to  the 
measure.  He  was  lodged  at  the  Coffee  House,  (in  Wall  street  opposite  the  pres- 
ent Tontine  Building),  and  when  the  Committee  who  had  him  in  charge  brought 
him  out  on  the  balcony,  the  band  struck  up,  "God  Save  the  King,"  while  shouts 
of  triumph  ascended  from  the  people  below.  A  procession  was  then  formed, 
and  he  was  escorted  to  the  foot  of  the  street,  placed  on  the  sloop,  and,  with 
the  Committee  who  guarded  him,  carried  down  to  the  ship.  On  Sunday,  at  10 
a.  m.,  the  ship  and  the  sloop,  with  the  Committee,  weighed  anchors  and  stood 


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15 


to  sea;  and  at  2  p.  m.  the  pilot  boat  and  the  Committee's  sloop  left  her  at  the 
distance  of  three  leagues  from  the  Hook.  Captain  Chambers,  of  the  London, 
accompanied  him  as  a  passenger.  The  event  was  heralded  to  the  world  by  the 
ringing  of  every  bell  in  the  city  except  those  on  the  City  Hall  and  Columbia  Col- 
lege; the  ships  in  the  harbor  raised  their  colors  in  triumph;  the  Liberty  Pole  was 
also  dressed  in  colors;  and  a  royal  salute  of  artillery  from  the  foot  of  the  Pole, 
concluded  the  ceremony." — From  Manual  of  the  Common  Council  of  New  York, 
i855- 

From  American  Archives  Series,  Vol.  1,  page  250.  Lieutenant  Governor 
Coldian's  letter  to  the  Earl  of  Dartmouth,  dated  May  4th,  1774,  confirms  the 
above  account  in  every  respect.  The  cargo  of  the  "Nancy"  consisted  of  698  chests 
of  tea. 

Letter  from  consignees  to  Captain  Lockyer.   From  "Tea  Leaves." 

"New  York,  December  27th,  1773. 

"Sir: 

"It  is  our  intention  that  this  letter  should  meet  you  below,  at  the  Hook,  that 
you  may  be  apprized  of  the  danger  of  bringing  your  ship  into  port.  All  the  tea 
shipped  by  the  Honorable  East  India  Company  to  Boston  has  been  destroyed 
on  board  the  vessels  that  brought  it.  The  ship  Polly,  Captain  Ayres,  arrived 
lately  at  Philadelphia,  with  tea  destined  for  that  port,  and  was  compelled  to 
return  with  it  without  being  suffered  to  come  into  the  harbor,  and  there  are  ad- 
vices in  town  that  Charleston  has  made  the  same  determination  with  respect  to 
the  tea  arrived  at  South  Carolina,  and  you  may  be  assured  the  inhabitants  of 
this  city  have  adopted  the  same  sentiments  and  are  fully  determined  to  carry 
them  into  execution.  We  therefore  think  it  a  duty  we  owe  to  the  said  company, 
as  we  can  neither  receive  the  tea  or  pay  the  duty,  to  apprize  you  of  your  danger, 
and  to  give  you  our  opinion  that  for  the  safety  of  your  cargo,  your  vessel  and 
your  person,  it  will  be  most  prudent  for  you  to  return  as  soon  as  you  can  be  sup- 
plied with  such  necessaries  as  you  may  have  occasion  for  on  the  voyage.  Certain 
we  are  that  you  would  fully  concur  in  the  propriety  of  this  advice  were  you  as 
well  acquainted  with  the  people's  sentiments  as  we  are,  which  you  will  learn  from 
the  enclosed  papers.  We  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  you  in  answer  hereto,  and  to 
render  any  service  we  can  in  your  critical  situation. 

"We  are  your  most  obedient  servants, 
Henry  White. 
Abram  Lott  &  Co. 
Pigno  &  Booth. 

To  Captain  Benjamin  Lockyer,  of  the  ship  "Nancy." 

Letter  from  Captain  Lockyer  to  the  agents  tendering  the  cargo. 

"New  York,  April  20th,  1774. 

"Gentlemen : 

"Having  considered  the  circumstances  mentioned  in  your  letter,  which  I  re- 
ceived on  my  arrival,  I  have  left  the  ship  and  cargo  at  Sandy  Hook  for  their 
safety.  Have  now  waited  on  you,  with  a  tender,  the  cargo  of  tea  shipped  by  the 
Honorable  East  India  Company  and  consigned  to  you.  I  am  therefore  ready  to 
deliver  the  said  cargo  according  to  the  bill  of  lading. 

'  "lam, 

"Benjamin  Lockyer. 

"Messrs.  White,  Lott,  Booth. 

"They  refuse  to  take  charge  of  same  or  any  part  thereof." 


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Committee  of  Correspondence,  1772. 

From  Dr.  Edward  D.  Collins, 
in  Annual  Report  of  American  Historical  Association, 
1901,  Vol.  1. 

"Committees  of  Correspondence  of  the  American  Revolution." 

"As  a  starting  point  for  the  study,  we  may  take  November  2,  1772,  and  say 
that  there  for  all  practicable  purposes,  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  began 
its  life  as  a  local  institution  of  the  Revolution  and  that  Samuel  Adams  was  its 
promoter.  Its  importance  as  piece  of  revolutionary  machinery  can  hardly  be 
overestimated.  It  was  not  merely  a  channel  through  which  public  opinion  might 
flow ;  it  created  public  opinion  and  played  upon  it  to  further  events.  It  was  a 
mother  of  committees  and  these  committees,  local  and  intercolonial,  worked  up 
the  war.  It  initiated  measures,  and  its  activities  comprehended  legislative,  execu- 
tive and  judicial  functions.   It  was  the  germ  of  a  government." 

November  3rd,  1772. 

From  Minutes  Boston  Committee  of  Correspondence. 

"Committee  of  Correspondence  met  at  the  Representatives  Chambers,  where 
the  following  vote  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  at  their  last  meeting,  November  2nd, 
1772,  was  received,  viz:  Upon  a  motion  made  by  Mr.  Samuel  Adams,  voted 
the  Hon.  James  Otis,  Esq.,  Mr.  Samuel  Adams,  Dr.  Joseph  Warren,  Dr.  Benja- 
min Church,  and  Mr.  William  Dohnie,  be,  and  hereby  are,  appointed  a  Commit- 
tee of  Correspondence  to  state  the  Rights  of  the  Colonies,  and  of  this  province 
in  particular,  as  men,  as  Christians,  and  as  subjects: 

"Secrecy.    Upon  motion  made  and  seconded,  it  was  voted  unanimously. 

"Enjoined,  that  each  member  of  the  Committee  be  desired  to  declare  to  the 
Chairman  of  the  Committee,  that  he  does  hold  himself  bound  in  honor,  not  to 
divulge  or  make  known  any  part  of  the  Conversation  of  this  Committee  at  their 
meetings,  to  any  person  whatsoever,  excepting  what  the  Committee  shall  judge 
proper  to  lay  before  the  Town  or  make  known  in  their  capacity  of  a  Committee." 

Birth  of  the  Union. 

While  November  2nd,  1772,  Committee  of  Correspondence,  is  generally 
acknowledged  as  date  of  the  beginning  of  the  Revolution,  May  23rd,  1774,  should 
be  considered  as  that  of  the  Union.  Historians  have  acceded  to  Massachusetts 
the  honor  and  fixed  the  date  June  17th,  1774,  while  to  New  York  belongs  the 
honor.  Having  found  the  correspondence  between  the  principal  committees 
relating  to  same,  some  of  which  are  now  for  the  first  time  published.  That  you 
may  judge  and  learn  of  the  great  injustice  that  has  been  done  in  robbing  New 
York  of  this  great  honor.   I  give  them  in  full. 

As  Given  by  Historians. 

"The  inception  of  the  Continental  Congress,  1774,  was  the  last  achievement 
of  the  Sons  of  Liberty  of  New  York.  On  the  evening  of  the  sixteenth  of  May 
they  convoked  the  inhabitants  of  their  city.  Two  parties  appeared  in  array,  on 
the  one  side  men  of  property,  on  the  other,  tradesmen  and  mechanics,  foreboding 
a  revolution  they  seemed  to  contend  in  advance  whether  their  future  Govern- 
ment should  be  founded  upon  the  basis  of  property  or  purely  popular  principles. 
The  mass  of  the  people  were  ready  to  form  a  new  social  order  in  which  they 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


17 


would  rule,  but  on  that  day  they  chose  to  follow  the  wealthier  class,  if  it  would 
but  make  with  them  a  common  cause,  and  nomination  of  the  committee  was  ac- 
cepted, even  with  the  addition  of  Isaac  Low  as  its  chairman,  who  was  more  of  a 
Loyalist  than  a  patriot.  .  .  .  The  Legislature  of  Massachusetts  on  the  last 
Wednesday  of  May  organized  the  Government  for  the  year.  .  .  .  On  Sat- 
urday, the  28th,  Samuel  Adams  was  on  the  point  of  proposing  a  general  Congress 
when  the  assembly  was  unexpectedly  prorogued  to  meet  after  ten  days  at  Salem." 
— Bancroft,  Vol.  4,  page  9. 


"Expressions  of  sympathy  now  came  to  Massachusetts  from  all  over  the 
Colonies.  The  Virginia  Burgesses  appointed  the  day  on  which  the  Intolerable 
Acts  were  to  go  into  force  as  a  day  of  fasting  and  prayer ;  and  when  they  were 
dismissed  by  their  royal  Governor  for  showing  sympathy  with  'rebels'  they 
promptly  met  again  in  the  Raleigh  tavern  and  proposed  an  Annual  Congress  of 
Committees  from  all  the  Colonies.  The  Virginia  suggestion  met  with  favor  and 
on  September  5th,  1774,  the  first  Continental  Congress  met  in  Carpenter's  Hall." 
— Muzzey,  page  122. 

"The  days  went  by  and  the  Tories  did  not  dream  of  Adams'  plans  by  means 
of  private  caucuses  held  in  the  evening,  however,  those  were  quickly  perfected, 
and  on  the  seventeenth  day  of  June,  129  members  being  present,  a  resolution 
awoke  them  from  their  drowsy  security.  This  was  to  appoint  James  Bowdoin, 
Samuel  and  John  Adams  and  Robert  Treat  Paine,  of  Taunton,  delegates  to  the 
proposed  Continental  Congress  at  Philadelphia  the  following  September." — Ellen 
Chase. 


First  Continental  Congress. 

"The  first  official  response  came  from  Virginia,  May  24th.  On  the  following 
day  the  Ex.  Burgesses  met  at  Raleigh  tavern  and  recommended  an  Annual 
Congress  of  Delegates  from  all  the  Colonies  to  deliberate  on  these  general  meas- 
ures which  the  united  interests  of  America  may  from  time  to  time  require.  A 
second  meeting,  on  May  31st,  called  the  Virginia  delegates  to  meet  at  Williams- 
burg on  August  1st,  in  order  to  appoint  Virginia's  delegates  for  the  proposed 
Continental  Congress  and  to  consider  a  plan  for  non-intercourse  with  England. 
The  counties  generally  ratified  this  call  by  expressly  authorizing  their  Ex.  Bur- 
gesses to  act  for  them  at  that  meeting,  or  by  choosing  new  representatives  to  do 
so.  Here  were  the  germs  of  revolutionary  machinery,  county,  state,  continental 
On  receipt  of  the  Virginia  suggestion  the  Rhode  Island  Assembly  appointed  dele- 
gates for  the  general  Congress,  June  15th.  Time  and  place  had  not  yet  been 
named,  but  two  days  later  the  Massachusetts  Assembly  supplied  the  omission,  and 
before  August  20th  all  the  colonies  but  Georgia  had  chosen  delegate  for  the  First 
Continental  Congress,  to  meet  September  1st,  at  Philadelphia."— West,  page  209 


Birth  of  a  New  Nation. 

"The  last  act  of  the  Massachusetts  House  of  Representatives  under  the  Old 
Charter  was  to  propose  (June  17th,  1774)  a  Colonial  Congress,  already  informally 
suggested  in  Virginia."— Hart,  page  149. 

"The  first  Continental  Congress.  ...  All  credit  given  to  Massachu- 
setts.   ...    No  mention  of  New  York."— Ashley,  page  149. 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


"From  the  Massachusetts  Assembly  there  came  the  proposal  for  a  Congress 
to  be  held  at  Philadelphia,  September  ist,  1774.  No  mention  of  New  York." — 
Sanford,  page  152. 

"The  first  Continental  Congress.  New  York  not  mentioned." — McLough- 
lin,  page  185. 

"The  First  Continental  Congress  Committees  of  Correspondence  had  pre- 
pared the  Colonies  for  united  action,  and  in  1774,  a  ContinentalCongress,  the 
first  ever  held  in  America,  met  in  Carpenter's  Hall,  Philadelphia." — Montgom- 
ery, page  159. 

The  First  Continental  Congress,  1774.  "Through  their  Committee  of  Cor- 
respondence several  Assemblies  suggested  a  Congress  of  the  Colonies.  Massa- 
chusetts issued  the  call." — Woodburn,  page  131. 


Facts  Relating  to  First  Continental  Congress. 

From  Boston  Committee  of  Correspondence. 
To  Alexander  McDougal  and  Isaac  Low,  Esq.,  of  New  York  and 
Thomas  Mifflin  and  George  Clymer,  Esq.,  at  Philadelphia. 

"Boston,  December  6th,  1773. 

"The  Committee  of  Correspondence  for  the  Town  of  Boston  have  much  la- 
mented the  precariousness  and  uncertainty  of  reasonable  and  authentic  intelli- 
gence from  your  city  regarding  matters  of  public  concernment,  address  you  with 
their  request  that  you  would  be  kind  enough  to  advise  them  duly  of  all  matters 
relative  to  our  common  interests  and  security  which  may  come  to  your  knowl- 
edge, especially  what  may  occur  in  your  Province  and  City,  and  if  it  might  be 
agreeable,  they  should  be  glad  you  would  use  your  influence  with  your  fellow 
citizens  at  any  future  meeting  to  appoint  a  similar  Committee  of  Correspondence, 
for  the  important  purpose  above  mentioned.  Your  reputation  for  patriotism  and 
constant  exertions  for  the  promoting  and  security  of  the  Common  Cause  are  their 
only  apology  for  their  address,  and  induce  them  to  rest  in  confidence,  That  you 
will  readily  gratify  their  wishes  in  the  above  proposal." 


Committee  of  Correspondence  Letters. 
Boston  to  New  York. 

"Gentlemen:  "Boston,  May  13th,  1774. 

"We  have  just  received  a  copy  of  an  Act  of  the  British  Parliament  passed  in 
the  present  session,  whereby  the  Town  of  Boston  is  treated  in  a  manner  most 
ignominious,  cruel  and  unjust.  The  Parliament  has  taken  upon  them,  from  the 
representations  of  our  Governor  and  other  persons  inimical  to  and  deeply  pre- 
judged against  the  inhabitants,  to  try,  condemn  and  by  an  Act  to  punish  them, 
unheard,  which  would  have  been  a  violation  of  Natural  Justice,  even  if  they  had 
an  acknowledged  jurisdiction.  They  have  ordered  our  port  to  be  shut  up,  leaving 
us  barely  so  much  of  the  means  of  subsistence,  as  to  keep  from  perishing  with 
cold  and  hunger ;  and  it  is  said  that  a  Fleet  of  British  ships  of  war  is  to  block  up 
our  Harbour  until  we  shall  make  restitution  to  the  East  India  Company  for  the 
loss  of  their  tea,  which  was  destroyed  therein  the  winter  past.  Obedience  is  paid 
to  the  laws  and  authority  of  Great  Britain  and  the  revenue  is  duly  collected. 


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19 


"This  act  fills  the  inhabitants  with  indignation.  The  more  thinking  part  of 
those  who  have  been  in  favor  of  the  measures  of  the  British  Government,  look 
upon  it  as  not  to  have  been  expected,  even  from  a  barbarous  state.  This  attack, 
although  made  immediately  upon  us,  is  doubtlessly  designed  for  every  other 
Colony  who  will  not  surrender  their  sacred  Rights  and  Liberties  into  the  Hands 
of  an  infamous  Ministry.  Now,  therefore,  is  the  time  when  all  should  be  united 
in  opposition  to  this  Violation  of  the  Liberties  of  all.  Their  grand  object  is  to 
divide  the  Colonies.  We  are  well  informed  that  Another  Bill  is  to  be  brought 
into  Parliament,  to  distinguish  this  from  the  other  Colonies  by  repealing  some  of 
the  Acts  which  have  been  Complained  of,  and  ease  the  American  Trade,  but  be 
assured  you  will  be  called  upon  to  surrender  your  Rights,  if  ever  they  should 
succeed  in  their  Attempts  to  suppress  the  spirit  of  Liberty  here.  The  simple 
Question  then  is,  whether  you  consider  Boston  is  now  suffering  in  the  common 
cause,  and  sensibly  feel  and  resent  the  injury  and  Affront  offered  to  her.  If  you 
do,  and  we  cannot  believe  otherwise,  may  we  not  prove  your  Approbation  of  our 
former  Conduct  in  Defense  of  American  Liberty,  rely  on  your  suspending  your 
Trade  with  Great  Britain,  at  least,  which  it  is  acknowledged,  will  be  great  but 
necessary  Sacrifice  to  the  Cause  of  Liberty,  and  will  effectually  defend  the  Design 
of  this  Act  of  Revenge.  If  this  should  be  done  you  will  please  to  consider 
it  will  be  through  a  voluntary  Suffering,  greatly  short  of  what  we  are  called  upon 
to  endure  under  the  inimical  hand  of  Tyranny.  We  desire  your  Answer  by  the 
Bearer,  and  after  assuring  you,  that  not  in  the  least  intimidated  by  their  inhuman 
heartlessness,  we  are  still  determined  to  Maintain  to  the  Utmost  of  our  Abilities 
the  Right  of  America.  ^  ^  ^ 

("Written  with  the  concurrence  of  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  of  the 
Towns  of  Charlestown,  Cambridge,  Brookline,  Newton,  Roxbury,  Dorchester, 
Lexington  and  Lynn.) 

"To  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  of  Philadelphia,  New  York,  New 
Jersey,  Rhode  Island,  Connecticut,  Portsmouth. 

"Gentlemen : 

"Your  friends  and  fellow  countrymen,  signed  by  order  and  in  behalf  of  the 
Committee  of  Correspondence.    Town  of  Boston. 

"W.  C.  T.,  Clerk. 
("William  Cooper,  Town  Clerk.") 


Vote  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  May  13th,  1774. 

"At  a  meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  others,  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 
Boston,  legally  qualified  and  duly  warned  in  public  Town  Meeting  Assembled,  at 
Faneuil  Hall,  on  Friday,  the  13th  day  of  May,  1774,  Voted:  That  it  is  the 
opinion  of  this  Town,  that  if  the  other  Colonies  came  to  a  joint  Resolution  to  stop 
all  Importations  from  Great  Britain,  and  Exportations  to  Great  Britain,  and 
every  port  of  the  West  Indies,  till  the  Act  of  Blocking  up  the  Harbour  be  re- 
pealed, the  same  will  prove  the  Salvation  of  North  America  and  her  Liberties. 
On  the  other  hand,  if  they  continue  their  Exports  and  Imports,  there  is  a  high 
Reason  to  fear  that  Fraud,  Power,  and  other  most  odious  oppression  will  be  Tri- 
umphant over  Right,  Justice,  social  Happiness  and  Freedom.  And  moreover 
that  this  vote  be  forthwith  transmitted  by  the  Moderator  to  our  Sister  Colonies 
in  the  Name  and  Behalf  of  this  Town. 

"Attest,  William  Cooper,  Town  Clerk." 


20 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


From  Minutes  Commitee  of  Correspondence. 

New  York,  May  16th,  1774. 

"The  Merchants  and  other  inhabitants  of  the  city  of  New  York  assembled 
at  the  Exchange  in  the  said  City,  and  nominated  the  following  gentlemen  to 
form  a  Committee  to  Correspond  with  our  Sister  Colonies  upon  All  matters  of 
Moment,  and  that  fifteen  be  a  board,  all  being  duly  summoned.  On  Tuesday, 
the  following  Notice  was  published  in  handbill:  'To  the  public:  An  advertise- 
ment having  appeared  at  the  Coffee  House,  in  consequence  of  the  late  extraor- 
dinary and  very  alarming  advices  received  from  England,  inviting  the  Merchants 
to  meet  at  the  house  of  Mr.  Samuel  Francis,  on  Monday  evening,  May  16th,  in 
order  to  consult  on  measures  proper  to  be  pursued  on  the  present  critical  and 
important  occasion.  A  very  respectable  and  large  number  of  merchants  and 
other  inhabitants  did  accordingly  appear  at  the  time  and  place  appointed  and 
then  and  there  nominate  for  the  approbation  of  the  public  a  committee  of  fifty 
persons  of  which  fifteen  would  be  a  sufficient  number  to  do  business,  That,  there- 
fore, no  formality  may  be  wanting  to  constitute  a  committee  duly  chosen." 

"The  inhabitants  of  this  city  and  county  are  requested  to  attend  at  the 
Coffee  House,  on  Thursday,  the  19th  instant,  at  11  o'clock,  to  approve  of  the 
Committee  nominated  as  before  said,  or  to  appoint  such  other  persons  as  in  their 
discretion  and  wisdom  may  seem  meet." — New  York,  May  17th,  1774. 

"In  consequence  of  the  foregoing  Advertisement  a  great  concourse  of  the 
inhabitants  met  at  the  Coffee  House,  on  Thursday,  May  19th,  to  confirm  or  alter 
the  nomination  of  a  Committee  to  correspond  with  our  Sister  Colonies,  when  Mr. 
Isaac  Low  addressed  his  fellow  citizens  in  the  following  words.  The  nomination 
of  the  fifty  gentlemen  made  at  the  Exchange  on  the  16th  instant,  was  then  sub- 
mitted by  Mr.  Low,  and  confirmed  by  the  meeting  and  Mr.  Francis  Lewis  was 
added  to  the  number  by  unanimous  consent." 


John  Alsop, 
William  Bayard, 
Theophilact  Bache, 
Peter  V.  B.  Livingston, 
Philip  Livingston, 
Isaac  Sears, 
David  Johnston, 
Charles  McEvers, 
Charles  Nicholl, 
Alexander  McDougall, 
Capt.  Thomas  Randall, 
John  Moore, 
Isaac  Low, 
Leonard  Lispenard, 
Jacobus  Van  Zant, 
James  Duane, 
Edward  Laight, 


Gerardus  Duycknick, 
Peter  Van  Schaack, 
Henry  Remsen, 
Hamilton  Young, 
George  Bowne, 
Peter  T.  Curtenius, 
Peter  Goelet, 
Thomas  Persall, 
Elias  Desbrosses 
William  Walton 
Richard  Yates, 
John  De  Lancey, 
Miles  Sherbrook, 
John  Thurman, 
,  John  Broome, 
John  Jay, 
Abraham  Brasher, 


Benjamin  Booth, 
Joseph  Hallett, 
Charles  Shaw, 
Alexander  Wallace, 
James  Jauncey, 
Gabriel  H.  Ludlow, 
Nicholas  Hoffman, 
Abraham  Walton, 
Gerard  W.  Beekman, 
Abraham  P.  Lott 
David  Van  Horne, 
Abraham  Duryee, 
Joseph  Bull, 
William  McAdam, 
Richard  Sharpe, 
Thomas  Marston. 


From  Minutes  of  Committee,  New  York,  May  23rd,  1774. 

"The  Committee  appointed  to  correspond  with  our  Sister  Colonies  upon  all 
matters  of  moment,  met  at  the  Coffee  House,  pursuant  to  the  notice  for  that  pur- 
pose given.    Present.    .    .    .    The  Committee  proceeded  to  choose  Mr.  Isaac 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


21 


Low  to  be  their  Chairman,  and  Mr.  John  Alsop,  their  Deputy  Chairman.  The 
Committee  received  a  letter  from  the  body  of  Mechanics,  signed  by  Jonathan 
Blake,  their  Chairman,  informing  them  of  their  concurrence  with  the  other 
inhabitants  of  this  city  in  their  nominations.  And  ordered  that  Mr.  Duane,  Mr. 
Jay  and  Mr.  Van  Schaack  be  a  committee  to  draw  up  a  set  of  Rules  for  the 
Regulations  of  the  Committee,  and  present  the  same  to  the  next  meeting.  Ordered 
that  the  first  five  members  on  the  list  who  shall  be  in  town  be  a  committee  to  open 
all  letters  directed  to  the  Committee  in  the  absence  of  the  Chairman  and  Deputy 
Chairman.  Letters  from  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  of  Boston  of  the  13th 
instant  and  a  letter  from  the  Committee  of  Philadelphia  were  read.  Ordered  that 
Mr.  McDougal,  Mr.  Low,  Mr.  Duane  and  Mr.  Jay  be  a  committee  to  prepare  and 
report  a  draft  of  an  answer  to  the  Boston  Committee  at  eight  o'clock  p.  m.,  to 
which  hour  the  Grand  Committee  were  then  adjourned." 

"New  York,  May  23rd,  1774. 

"The  Committee  met  at  the  Coffee  House,  at  8  o'clock  in  the  evening,  pursu- 
ant to  adjournment.  The  Committee  appointed  this  morning  to  prepare  a 
draft  of  a  letter  in  answer  to  those  received  from  Boston,  presented  a  draft  to 
the  Committee,  which  was  unanimously  approved  of  and  transmitted  to  the 
Committee  of  Correspondence  at  Boston,  in  the  following  words: 


"Gentlemen:  "New  York,  May  23rd,  1774. 

"The  alarming  Measures  of  the  British  Parliament  relative  to  your  ancient 
and  respectable  Town,  which  has  so  long  been  the  Seat  of  Freedom,  fills  the  In- 
habitants of  this  City  with  inexpressible  Concern ;  as  a  Sister  Colony  suffering  in 
Defence  of  the  Rights  of  America,  we  consider  your  Injuries  as  a  common  Cause, 
to  the  Redress  of  which  it  is  equally  our  Duty  and  our  Interest  to  contribute. 
But  what  ought  to  be  done  in  a  Situation  so  truly  critical,  while  it  employs  the 
anxious  Thoughts  of  every  generous  Mind,  is  very  hard  to  be  determin'd.  Our 
Citizens  have  thought  it  necessary  to  appoint  a  large  Committee  consisting  of  fif- 
ty-one Persons  to  correspond  with  our  Sister  Colonies  on  this  and  every  other 
Matter  of  publick  Moment :  and  at  ten  o'clock  this  Forenoon  we  were  first  assem- 
bled. Your  Letter  enclosing  the  Vote  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  and  the  Letter  of 
your  Committee  of  Correspondence  were  immediately  taken  into  consideration. 
While  we  thirk  you  justly  entitled  to  the  Thanks  of  your  Sister  Colonies  for  ask- 
ing their  Advice  on  a  Case  of  such  extensive  Consequences,  we  lament  our  Inabil- 
ity to  relieve  your  Anxiety  by  a  decisive  Opinion.  The  Cause  is  general  and  con- 
cerns a  whole  Continent  who  are  equally  interested  with  you  and  us ;  and  we  fore- 
see that  no  Remedy  can  be  of  avail,  unless  it  proceeds  from  the  joint  Act  and  Ap- 
probation of  all.  From  a  virtuous  and  spirited  Union  much  may  be  expected : 
while  the  feeble  Efforts  of  a  few  will  only  be  attended  with  Mischief  and  Disap- 
pointment to  themselves,  and  Triumph  to  the  Adversaries  of  our  Liberty.  Upon 
these  Reasons  we  conclude  that  a  Congress  of  Deputies  from  the  Colonies  in  gen- 
eral is  of  the  utmost  Moment ;  that  it  ought  to  be  assembled  without  Delay  and 
some  unanimous  Resolutions  formed  in  this  fatal  Emergency,  not  only  respecting 
your  deplorable  Circumstances,  but  for  the  Security  of  our  common  Rights.  Such 
being  our  Sentiments  it  must  be  premature  to  pronounce  any  Judgment  on  the 
Expedient  which  you  have  suggested.  We  beg.  however,  that  you  will  do  us  the 
Justice  to  believe  that  we  shall  continue  to  act  with  a  firm  and  becoming  Regard 
to  American  Freedom,  and  to  co-operate  with  our  Sister  Colonies  in  every  Meas- 
ure which  shall  be  though  salutary  and  conducive  to  the  publick  Good. 


22 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


"We  have  nothing  to  add,  but  that  we  sincerely  condole  with  you  in  your 
unexampled  Distress;  and  to  request  your  speedy  Opinion  of  the  proposed  Con- 
gress, that  if  it  should  meet  with  your  Approbation,  we  may  exert  our  utmost 
Endeavours  to  carry  it  into  Execution. 

"We  are  with  much  Respect,  Gentlemen 

"Your  most  Hbl  Servants 
"By  Order  of  the  Committee, 

"ISAAC  LOW,  Chairman. 
"To  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  in  Boston." 


Minutes  of  Meeting  at  Philadelphia. 

"At  a  meeting  of  between  two  and  three  hundred  of  the  respectable  in- 
habitants of  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  at  the  City  Tavern,  on  Friday  evening,  May 
20th,  1774,  the  letters  from  the  Boston  Committee  were  read.  When  it  was 
agreed  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to  correspond  with  our  Sister  Colonies, 
names  as  given.  That  the  Committee  be  instructed  to  write  to  the  people  of  Bos- 
ton, that  we  truly  feel  for  their  unhappy  situation.  That  we  consider  them  as 
suffering  in  the  general  cause,  that  we  recommend  to  them  firmness,  prudence 
and  moderation;  and  that  we  shall  continue  to  evidence  our  firm  adherence  to 
the  Cause  of  American  Liberty.  That  the  above  resolutions  be  transmitted  to  the 
other  colonies.  That  the  Committee  be  instructed  to  apply  to  the  Governor  to  call 
the  Assembly  of  the  Province.  That  they  be  authorized  to  call  a  meeting  of  the 
inhabitants  when  necessary." 


New  York  to  Philadelphia. 

"New  York,  May  24th,  1774. 

"Gentlemen : 

"A  copy  of  your  letter  in  answer  to  those  received  by  express  from  Boston, 
having  been  communicated  to  the  Committee  of  fifty-one  persons,  lately  appointed 
by  our  citizens  to  correspond  with  the  other  colonies  on  all  matters  of  moment. 
I  am  desired  by  the  Committee  to  transmit  you  the  enclosed  copy  of  their  letter  to 
the  Committee  of  Correspondence,  Boston.  I  am  also  directed  to  inform  you  that 
the  sentiments  contained  in  your  letter,  to  the  Committee  of  Boston,  are  much 
approved  by  our  Committee,  who  will  be  happy  in  a  free  and  mutual  communi- 
cation of  Sentiments  on  all  occasions  on  matters  so  important  and  interesting  to 
the  American  Colonies.  I  have  the  honor  to  subscribe  myself  with  much 
respect  and  regard,  by  order  of  the  Committee  of  Correspondence. 

"I.  LOW,  Chairman." 


Letter  to  Boston  from  Philadelphia,  May  21st,  1774. 

"Gentlemen : 

"  We  have  received  your  very  interesting  Letter  together  with  a  Letter  from 
the  Town  of  Boston  and  the  vote  they  have  passed  on  the  prevailing  alarming 
Occasion,  and  such  measures  have  been  pursued  thereon  as  the  shortness  of  the 
time  would  allow.  To  collect  the  Sense  of  this  large  City  is  difficult,  and  when 
their  Sentiments  are  obtained  they  must  not  consider  themselves  as  authorized  to 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


23 


judge  or  act  for  this  populous  province  on  a  Business  so  deeply  interesting  as 
the  present  is  to  all  British  America. 

"A  very  respectable  number  of  the  inhabitants  of  this  city  was,  however, 
assembled  last  evening  in  order  to  consult  what  was  proper  to  be  done ;  and  after 
reading  the  several  Tapers  you  transmitted  to  us,  and  also  a  letter  from  the  Com- 
mittee of  Correspondence  in  New  York,  and  enclosed  Resolves  were  passed,  in 
which  you  may  be  assured  we  are  sincere,  and  that  you  are  considered  as  now 
Suffering  in  the  general  cause. 

"But  what  further  advice  to  offer  on  this  sad  occasion  is  a  Matter  of  the 
greatest  Difficulty ;  which  not  only  requires  more  mature  Deliberation,  but  also 
that  we  should  take  the  necessary  measures  to  obtain  the  general  sentiments  of 
our  fellow  inhabitants  of  this  Province,  as  well  as  of  our  Sister  Colonies.  If  sat- 
isfying the  East  India  Company  for  the  damage  they  have  sustained  would  put 
an  end  to  this  Controversy,  and  leave  us  on  the  Footing  of  Constitutional  Liberty 
for  the  future,  it  is  presumed  that  neither  you  nor  we  could  continue  a  Moment 
in  Doubt  what  Part  to  act:  for  it  is  not  the  value  of  the  Tax,  but  the  indefensible 
Right  of  giving  and  granting  our  own  Money,  from  which  we  never  can  recede. 
That  is  the  Matter  now  in  Consideration. 

"By  what  means  the  truly  desirable  Circumstances  of  a  Reconciliation  and 
future  Harmony  with  our  Mother  Country  on  Constitutional  Grounds  may  be 
obtained,  is,  indeed,  a  Mighty  Question:  whether  by  the  Method  you  have  sug- 
gested of  a  Non-Importation  and  Non-Exportation  Agreement,  or  by  a  general 
Congress  of  Deputies  from  the  Different  Colonies,  clearly  to  state  what  we  con- 
ceive our  Rights,  and  make  a  Claim  or  Petition  of  them  to  his  Majesty  in  firm 
but  decent  and  dutiful  terms,  (so  as  that  we  may  know  by  what  line  to  conduct 
ourselves  in  future)  are  now  the  great  points  to  be  determined.  The  latter 
Method  we  have  reason  to  think  would  be  most  agreeable  to  the  people  of  this 
Province,  and  the  first  step  that  ought  to  be  taken.  The  former  may  be  reserved 
as  our  last  Resource,  should  the  other  fail,  which  we  trust  will  not  be  the  case, 
as  many  wise  and  good  men  in  the  Mother  Country  begin  to  see  the  necessity  of  a 
good  understanding  with  the  Colonies  upon  the  general  plan  of  Liberty,  as  well 
as  Commerce.  We  shall  endeavor  as  soon  as  possible  to  collect  the  Sentiments 
of  the  People  of  this  Province,  and  the  Neighboring  Colonies,  on  these  grand 
Questions,  and  should  be  glad  to  know  your  sentiments  thereon. 

"In  the  Mean,  with  sincere  fellow  Feelings  for  your  Sufferings,  We  are  your 
assured  friends, 


"John  Cox,  "Jere  Warder,  Jr., 

"John  Nixon,  "William  Smith, 

"Edward  Penington,  "Charles  Thomson, 

"Sam.  Howell,  "John  Gibson, 

"Thomas  Barclay,  "Joseph  Moulder, 

"Thomas  Wharton,  Jr.,  "Thomas  Mifflen, 

"William  Duhenour  of  the  Committe  of  Town. 

On  Back.  "Letter  from  Philadelphia  received  from  Mr.  Revere,  May  28th 
1774" 


From  Minutes  of  New  York  Committee,  May  30,  1774. 

"Ordered  that  Messrs.  Peter  Van  Schaack,  Francis  Lewis,  John  Jay,  Alex- 
ander McDougall  and  Theophilact  Bache  be  a  Committee  to  write  a  Circular 
Letter  to  the  Supervisors  in  the  different  Counties,  acquainting  them  of  the  ap- 


24 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


pointment  of  this  Committee  and  submitting  to  the  consideration  of  the  inhab- 
itants of  the  counties  whether  it  could  not  be  expedient  for  them  to  appoint  per- 
sons to  correspond  with  this  Committee  upon  matters  relative  to  the  purpose  for 
which  they  are  appointed.  The  Committee  adjourned  to  meet  at  the  Exchange 
on  Monday  next,  6th  of  June,  1774,  at  6  o'clock  in  the  evening." 


Boston  to  Philadelphia,  May  29th  or  30th. 
(There  appears  to  be  Two  Dates.) 

"Gentlemen : 

"We  cannot  but  felicitate  ourselves  on  that  harmony  of  Sentiment  and 
happy  concurrence  as  to  the  Mode  of  action  which  generally  prevails  throughout 
the  Colonies,  as  far  as  we  have  been  favored  with  their  voice  in  the  present 
Emergency. 

"Our  hope,  our  Confidence,  (under  heaven)  rests  upon  this  unanimity  of 
Council  and  Exertion,  as  in  the  Colonies.  Hostilities  are  already  commenced  on 
the  part  of  our  Enemies,  we  trust  that  you  are  sufficiently  aware  that  resistance 
should  keep  pace  with  the  Encroachments  of  the  Adversary.  On  Our  Friends 
at  Philadelphia  in  a  more  especial  Manner,  we  are  induced  to  rely.  Your  early 
notice  and  resolutions  respecting  the  late  ministerial  measure  of  sending  out  the 
teas,  inspired  your  Brethren  this  way  with  a  determination  that  the  establishment 
of  the  Tax  on  that  detested  article  should  not  commence  in  this  Colony. 

"The  Machinations  of  Hutchinson,  the  Commissioners  and  Consignees  con- 
stantly frustrated  every  endeavor  to  preserve  the  property  of  the  East  India 
Company,  Except  by  absolute  submission  to  the  Tax.  We  heartily  coincide 
with  you  in  proposal  of  a  general  Congress  of  Deputies  from  the  different  Colo- 
nies for  the  necessary  purpose  you  mention,  and  as  the  general  assembly  of  this 
colony  is  now  setting,  we  expect  they  will  be  strenuously  engaged  in  promoting 
so  wise  and  necessary  a  measure. 

"But,  Gentlemen,  you  must  be  convinced,  this  proposal,  however  salutary, 
must  be  slow  in  its  execution ;  an  early  and  general  restrain  on  our  Imports  and 
Exports  to  and  from  G.  B.  must  operate  immediately  to  our  relief.  The 
Exigencies  of  the  Poor,  who  are  numerous  with  us,  and  who  by  the  operation  of 
this  destructive  Act  must  be  reduced  to  want,  require  every  Method  should  be 
taken  to  relieve  them  as  soon  as  possible ;  in  the  lenity  of  the  British  Government 
we  cannot  confide,  she  must  be  made  to  share  a  part  in  our  distress,  before  she  can 
be  induced  to  redress  our  wrongs. 

"The  wise  and  good  in  the  Mother  Country  may  begin  to  see  the  necessity 
of  a  good  understanding  with  the  Colonies,  but  we  apprehend  a  general  union  in 
the  plan  of  countermanding  and  withholding  orders,  and  restraining  our  Exports 
to  that  ungrateful  Country,  must  make  our  weak  and  wicked  Task  Masters  feel 
the  Inconvenience  which  must  result  from  these  vigorous  and  impolitic  measures. 

"We  enclose  you  the  Proceedings  of  the  Trade,  hitherto,  who  meet  again 
on  Thursday  next.  The  Town  meet  to-day  by  adjournment,  a  manly  firmness 
and  unanimous  resolution  to  vindicate  their  just  right  may  be  expected  of  this 
people.  Their  determinations,  we  shall  send  you  by  the  next  opportunity.  An 
address  to  the  late  Governor  Hutchinson,  weak,  insolent,  and  false,  has  been  clan- 
destinely handed  about,  a  wretched  Group  of  Subscribers  consisting  of  Place- 
men, Pensioners,  and  needy  Expectants,  with  a  few  who  have  thus  dishonored 
themselves,  make  up  the  formidable  Lists,  in  firm  confidence  you  will  co-oper- 
ate with  us  in  every  pacific  measure  to  rescue  and  preserve  our  Common  rights 
and  Liberties.  «We  remain>  etc  „ 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


25 


On  back  "Copy  of  a  letter,"  to  Philadelphia. 

May  30th,  1774.  Cornelius  Bradford,  an  express,  copy  of  letter  to  Philadel- 
phia, May  29th,  1774.    Recorded  by  Samuel  Nutting. 

Note. — While  letter  from  New  York's  Committee  was  written  May  23rd 
and  above  letter  not  sent  till  29th  or  30th.  There  is  no  mention  made  of  same. 
Boston  being  strongly  in  favor  of  "Countermanding  and  Withholding  Orders." 


Letter  from  Boston  Commitee  to  Netv  York  Committee. 

"Boston,  May  30th. 

"Since  the  close  of  the  above  we  are  favored  with  yours  of  the  23rd  Current 
by  Mr.  Revere.  We  flatter  ourselves  that  your  concern  for  our  distress  and  dan- 
ger, which  through  us  threatens  all  North  America,  will  prompt  you  to  embrace 
every  opportunity  that  offers  to  bring  the  unhappy  dispute  to  an  issue.  A  speedy, 
united  and  vigorous  effort  is  certainly  all  that  can  possibly  be  depended  upon  to 
yield  us  any  effectual  Relief.  This  effort  on  all  hands  acknowledged  to  be  the 
suspension  of  Trade  so  wisely  defined  by  you. 

"Our  poor  are  numerous ;  their  wants  are  pressing  in  our  best  condition ; 
they  must  become  calamities  by  lack  of  employment  for  any  length  of  time,  and 
unless  Great  Britain  can  be  made  to  share  part  of  their  distress,  we  may  in  vain 
expect  even  a  relaxation  of  her  vigor  on  other  terms  than  the  vilest  submission." 

"We  view  a  General  Congress  as  a  measure  indispensable  to  a  reasonable 
settlement  of  the  politics  of  this  Great  Commonwealth,  and  shall  engage  our 
Representatives  to  forward  it  in  the  General  Assembly ;  but  supposing  this  im- 
portant measure  conducted  with  all  the  expedition  possible,  it  must  be  many 
months  before  it  can  be  brought  about,  whereas  a  general  restraint  upon  our 
Exports  and  Imports  from  Great  Britain  must  have  a  speedy  and  irresistible  op- 
eration upon  parties  who  have  hitherto  paid  little  regard  to  petitions  of  Right,  en- 
forced by  every  argument  that  Justice,  Equity  and  the  faith  of  Solemn  Charters 
can  afford.  The  Address  mentioned  in  the  former  part  of  this  letter  appears  in 
the  papers  of  the  day.  It  was  set  on  foot  by  some  worthless  wretches  capable  of 
being  instigated  to  any  degree  of  prostitutions  to  prompt  the  charadiue  of  their 
tottering  heirs;  who  it  must  be  allowed,  bestowed  as  many  Commissions  on -the 
unworthy  objects,  measures  of  unworthy  favors  as  ever  a  dispenser  of  royal  fa- 
vors did  in  this  country. 

"They  have  ransacked  the  country  for  names,  and  in  due  time  you  will 
doubtless  be  informed  of  their  respective  characters.  We  cannot  conceive  there 
will  be  any  difficulty  respecting  the  article  each  colony  will  be  necessitated  to  con- 
tinue their  demands.  None  certainly  will  exceed  what  are  absolutely  indispen- 
sable. It  is  for  such  a  regulation  principally,  that  many  have  thought  a  Congress 
needful,  but  we  have  such  an  honorable  opinion  of  the  good  faith  of  our  breth- 
ren that  we  can  fully  rely  upon  their  prudence  to  settle  these  matters,  each  Colony 
for  themselves.  Official  Copy  of  Letter  to  New  York,  Rec,  from  Original 
Letter." 


Letter  from  New  York  Committee  to  Boston  Committee. 

"Gentlemen:  "New  York'  June  7th,  1774. 

"We  have  received  your  favor  of  the  30th  of  May.  and  you  may  rest  assured, 
we  shall  eagerly  embrace  all  proper  opportunities  of  contributing  our  mite  toward 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


bringing  to  a  favorable  issue  the  unhappy  disputes  which  at  present  subsist  be- 
tween the  parent  State  and  her  Colonies. 

"You  say  that  'a  speedy,  united  and  vigorous  effort  is  certainly  all  that  can 
be  depended  upon  to  yield  us  any  effectual  relief,  and  that  this  effort  is  in  all 
hands  acknowledged  to  be  the  suspension  of  trade,'  So  wisely  defiended  by  you." 
To  the  first  we  entirely  concur  with  you  in  sentiments ;  but  in  the  last,  we  appre- 
hend you  have  made  a  mistake,  for  on  revising  our  letter  to  you,  so  far  from  find- 
ing a  word  mentioned  of  a  'suspension  of  trade,'  the  idea  is  not  even  conceived. 
That  and  every  other  resolution,  we  have  thought  is  most  prudent  to  leave  for 
the  discussion  of  the  proposed  general  Congress. 

"Adhering,  therefore,  to  that  measure  as  most  conducive  to  promote  the 
grand  system  of  politics  we  all  have  in  view,  we  have  the  pleasure  to  acquaint  you, 
that  we  shall  be  ready  on  our  part  to  meet  at  any  time  and  place  that  you  shall 
think  fit  to  appoint ;  either  of  Deputies  from  the  General  Assembly  of  such  other 
Deputies  as  shall  be  chosen,  not  only  to  speak  their  sentiments,  but  also  to  pledge 
themselves  for  the  conduct  of  the  people  of  the  respective  Colonies  they  repre- 
sent. 

"We  can  undertake  to  assure  you  in  behalf  of  the  people  in  this  Colony,  that 
they  will  readily  agree  to  any  measure  that  shall  be  adopted  by  the  General  Con- 
gress. It  will  be  necessary  that  you  give  a  sufficient  time  for  the  Deputies  of  the 
Colonies,  as  far  southward  as  the  Carolinas,  to  assemble  and  acquaint  them  as 
soon  as  possible  with  the  proposed  measure  of  a  Congress.  Your  letters  to  the 
southward  of  us  we  will  forward  with  great  pleasure. 

"You  may  have  seen  the  names  of  our  Committee  in  the  public  prints,  as 
we  never  heard  the  names  of  those  which  constitute  your  Committee,  we  request 
the  favor  of  you  to  give  us  that  satisfaction  in  your  next. 

"We  beg  that  your  letters  for  the  future  may  be  sealed  and  directed  to  our 
Chairman. 

"We  are,  gentlemen,  your  friends  and  most  humble  servants.    By  order  of 

thG  Committee-  "I.  LOW,  Chairman." 

The  strong  position  taken  by  New  York  for  a  Congress  is  shown  by  the 
above  letter. 

Boston  to  New  York. 

"Gentlemen:  "Boston,  June  16th,  1774. 

"We  are  favored  with  yours,  June  7th,  by  our  respected  friend,  Col.  Lee. 
The  clause  in  a  former  letter  in  which  you  apprehend  we  made  a  mistake  we  must 
explain  by  observing  that  the  idea  of  Suspension  of  Trade  we  took  from  a  Letter 
wrote  us  by  your  former  Committee  of  Correspondence.  We  note  you  are  of 
opinion  that  it  is  most  prudent  to  leave  every  resolution  for  the  discussion  of  the 
General  Congress,  and  are  pleased  with  your  readiness  to  meet  by  your  Deputies 
either  of  the  General  Assembly  (or  other  Deputies)  in  a  General  Congress  at  any 
time  or  place  we  shall  think  fit.  We  have  to  inform  you  that  in  General  Assembly 
are  now  setting  at  Salem,  about  20  miles  from  this  metropolis,  they  have  ap- 
pointed a  committee  to  report  on  that  subject. 

"From  the  wisdom,  spirit  and  resolution  of  our  assembly  we  cannot  have 
the  least  doubt  that  they  will  do  everything  that  will  show  the  world  that  they 
regard  a  union  of  the  Colonies  at  all  times,  and  especially  at  this  time,  as  of  the 
utmost  importance  to  the  salvation  of  our  rights.  We  are  in  hopes  to  forward 
you  their  resolutions  by  next  opportunity,  being  assured  of  your  realization  and 


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27 


sympathizing  with  us  in  our  most  distressing  condition,  and  your  readiness  to 
afford  your  good  advice  and  assistance  at  all  times  in  the  common  cause  of 
America. 

"We  are  with  the  greatest  respect,  Gentlemen,  Your  friends  and  brothers  in 
the  Common  Cause  for  Liberty. 

"P.  S.  The  Yeomen  of  this  Province  have  begun  a  Solemn  Agreement  to 
purchase  and  consume  no  Goods  imported  from  Great  Britain  after  the  first  of 
October,  next,  which  people  eagerly  subscribe,  a  copy  of  which  was  sent  to  you 
last  Week.  Names  of  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  for  the  Town  of  Boston 
chosen  November  2nd,  1772." 

June  16th,  Copy  of  Letter  sent  to  the  Committee  of  New  York,  1774.  Re- 
corded. 


From  Minutes  of  Nezv  York  Committee,  June  6th. 

"Ordered  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  write  a  letter  to  the  Committee 
of  Correspondence  in  Boston,  acquainting  them  that  we  adhere  to  the  Measure 
of  a  Congress,  and  that  we  shall  be  ready  to  meet  them  at  any  time  and  place 
they  shall  think  fit  to  appoint,  either  Deputies  from  the  General  Assembly,  or 
such  other  Deputies  as  shall  be  properly  chosen  and  authorized  to  speak  the  sen- 
timents of  their  different  Colonies.  That  the  Committee  at  Boston  give  sufficient 
time  for  the  Deputies  of  the  Colonies  to  the  southward,  as  far  as  Carolina,  to 
assemble,  and  acquaint  them  with  the  measure  of  Congress.  Those  letters  to  the 
southward  of  us,  we  shall  with  pleasure  forward.  Sub-Commitee  for  writing 
the  Letter  are  Peter  V.  B.  Livingston,  John  Moore,  John  Broome,  John  Thurman, 
Isaac  Low.  Ordered :  That  the  Committee  of  Boston  be  required  to  give  this 
Committee  the  names  of  the  persons  who  constitute  the  Committee  of  Corre- 
spondence at  Boston ;  that  they  have  made  a  mistake  in  answering  this  Commit- 
tee's Letter,  which  mentioned  not  a  word  of  a  suspension  of  trade,  which  they 
say  we  have  so  wisely  defined,  as  we  leave  that  measure  entirely  to  the  Congress, 
and  we  shall  readily  agree  to  any  measure  they  shall  adopt,  to  request  that  their 
letters  for  the  future  be  sealed  and  directed  to  the  Chairman.  The  Committee 
adjourned  to  meet  at  the  Exchange,  on  Monday,  20th,  of  this  instant,  June,  at 
6  o'clock,  in  the  evening." 


Massachusetts  House  of  Representatives. 

"In  the  House  of  Representatives,  June  17th,  1774.  This  House  having 
duly  considered  and  being  deeply  affected  with  the  unhappy  differences  between 
Great  Britain  and  the  American  Colonies,  do  resolve  that  a  meeting  of  Commit- 
tees from  several  Colonies  on  this  Continent  is  highly  expedient  and  necessary,  to 
consult  upon  the  present  state  of  the  Colonies,  and  must  be  reduced  by  the  opera- 
tion of  certain  Acts  of  Parliament  respecting  America,  and  to  deliberate  and  de- 
termine upon  wise  and  proper  measures  to  be  by  them  recommended  to  all  the 
Colonies  for  the  recovery  and  establishment  of  their  just  rights  and  liberties, 
civil  and  religious,  and  the  restoration  of  Union  and  harmony  between  Great 
Britain  and  the  Colonies,  most  ardently  desired  by  all  good  men,  therefore,  re- 
solved that  the  Honorable  James  Bowdoin.  the  Honorable  Thomas  dishing,  Esq.. 
Mr.  Samuel  Adams,  John  Adams  and  Robert  Treat  Paine,  Esquires,  be,  and 
they  are  hereby  appointed,  a  committee  on  the  part  of  This  Province  for  the  pur- 
pose aforesaid,  any  three  of  whom  to  be  a  quorum,  to  meet  such  Committees  or 
Delegates  for  other  Colonies,  as  have  been  or  may  be  appointed,  Either  by  their 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


respective  Houses  of  Burgesses  or  Representatives  or  by  Convention  or  by  the 
House  of  Assembly  to  meet  in  this  Assembly,  to  meet  in  the  City  of  Philadelphia, 
or  any  other  place  that  shall  be  judged  most  suitable  by  the  Committee,  on  the 
first  day  of  September  next,  and  that  the  speaker  of  the  House  of  Burgesses  or 
Representatives,  in  the  several  Colonies,  to  inform  them  of  the  substances  of  their 
resolves." 


From  Minutes  New  York  Committee. 

"June  29th,  1774. 

"Mr.  McDougal  moved,  and  was  seconded  by  Mr.  John  Broome,  in  the  fol- 
lowing motion,  viz :  That  this  Committee  proceed  immediately  to  nominate  five 
deputies  for  the  City  and  County  of  New  York,  to  represent  them  in  a  conven- 
tion of  the  Colony,  or  in  the  General  Congress  to  be  held  in  Philadelphia,  on  the 
first  of  September  next,  if  the  other  counties  of  this  Colony  approve  of  them 
as  Deputies  for  the  Colony,  and  that  their  names  be  sent  to  the  Committees  of 
Mechanics  for  their  concurrence ;  to  be  proposed  on  Tuesday  next  to  the  free- 
holders and  freemen  of  this  city  and  county,  for  their  approbation.  Debates 
arising  on  the  foregoing  motion,  Ordered  that  the  same  be  postponed  until 
Monday  evening,  the  fourth  of  July  next,  then  to  be  finally  determined.  To  which 
time  the  Committee  adjourned." 

New  York,  July  4,  1774. 

"Captain  Sears  moved,  and  was  seconded  by  Mr.  P.  B.  Livingston,  that 
Messrs.  Isaac  Low,  James  Duane,  Phillip  Livingston,  John  Morin  Scott,  and 
Alexander  McDougal  be  nominated  agreeable  to  the  question  now  carried. 

"There  was  some  opposition  manifested  against  the  Committee's  nominations, 
and  not  until  July,  when  James  Duane,  Phillip  Livingston,  John  Alsop  and  Isaac 
Low  were  unanimously  elected,  to  represent  this  city,  in  the  General  Congress  the 
first  of  September  next,  at  Philadelphia." 


EVACUATION  OF  NEW  YORK,  BY  THE  ENGLISH. 
November  25th,  1783. 

This  was  the  closing  event  of  the  Revolution.  The  day  on  which  the  last 
English  soldier  left  our  Country  should  be  called  The  First  Day  of  the  United 
States  of  America.  It  was  celebrated  annually  for  many  years  in  preference 
of  all  other  days.  Historians  have  neglected  it,  until  it  has  passed  almost 
into  oblivion,  and  yet  it  is  one  of  the  most  important  occasions  in  our  early  his- 
tory. It  is  true  it  occurred  in  New  York,  as  did  also  General  Washington's  Fare- 
well to  his  officers,  December  4th.  A  most  pathetic  occasion,  a  demonstration  of 
the  great  man's  affection  for  those  who  had  been  closely  connected  and  beloved 
by  him  for  eight  trying  years. 

Historians  Account. 

"The  remnant  of  the  British  army  had  crossed  to  Staten  Island  and  Long 
Island,  for  embarkation,  when  on  the  25th  of  November,  Washington  and  the 
Governor,  and  other  officers  of  the  state  and  city  of  New  York,  were  met  at  the 
Bowery  by  Knox  and  citizens,  and  in  orderly  procession  made  their  glad  progress 
into  the  heart  of  the  Town.    Rejoicing  followed.   The  emblem  chosen  to  intro- 


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29 


duce  the  evenings  display  of  fireworks,  was  a  dove  with  the  olive  hranch.  For 
their  farewell  to  Washington,  the  officers  of  the  army,  on  the  fourth  of  De- 
cember, met  at  a  public  house  near  the  battery,  and  were  joined  by  their  Com- 
mander. The  thoughts  of  the  eight  years  which  had  passed  together,  their  com- 
mon distresses,  their  victories,  and  now  their  parting  from  the  public  service,  the 
future  of  themselves  and  their  country  came  thronging  to  every  mind 
pledging  them  in  a  glass  of  wine,  he  thus  addressed  them  with  a  heart  full  of 
love  and  gratitude:  'I  now  take  leave  of  you.  May  your  latter  days  be  as 
prosperous  and  happy,  as  your  former  ones  have  been  glorious.  1  shall  be  obliged 
to  you  if  each  of  you  will  come  and  take  me  by  the  hand.'  With  tears  on  his 
cheeks  he  grasped  the  hand  of  Knox,  who  stood  nearest  and  embraced  him. 
In  the  same  manner  he  took  leave  of  every  officer.  Followed  by  the  company, 
in  a  silent  procession,  he  passed  through  a  corps  of  light  infantry  to  the  ferry  at 
Whitehall." — Bancroft,  Vol.  6,  page  lob. 

"On  November  23rd,  the  last  British  soldiers  in  America  sailed  out  of  New 
York  harbor,  and  a  few  days  later  Washington  bade  his  officers  an  affectionate 
farewell  in  the  long  hall  of  Fraunces  Tavern." — Muzzey,  page  155. 

"In  the  spring  of  1783,  the  troops  were  disbanded,  New  York  was  evacuated 
by  the  British,  November  25th,  1783,  and  the  Revolutionary  War  was  happily 
over." — Hart. 

The  following  historians  do  not  give  an  account  of  the  evacuation  by  the 
English:  Channing,  Ashley,  McLaughlin,  West,  Woodburn,  Montgomery,  nor 
James  and  Sanford. 

Actual  Account. 

New  York  Packet,  Thursday,  November  20th,  1783. 
We  are  favored  with  the  following  Orders,  issued  at  Wrest  Point,  the  16th 
instant." 

Garrison  Orders. 

"November  16th,  1783. 

"The  Definitive  Treaty  being  concluded,  and  the  City  of  New  York  to  be 
evacuated  on  the  22nd  instant,  His  Excellency,  the  Commander  in  Chief,  proposes 
to  celebrate  the  Peace  at  that  Place  on  Monday,  the  first  day  of  December  next, 
by  a  Display  of  the  Fireworks,  and  illuminations  which  were  intended  to  have 
been  exhibited  at  this  post,  or  such  of  them  as  have  not  been  injured  by  Time 
and  can  be  removed." 


Saturday,  November  22nd,  1783. 
The  Independent  Nexv  York  Gazette. 

"At  a  meeting  held  this  evening  at  Mrs.  Capes,  the  following  Resolutions 
were  unanimously  entered  into,  Colonel  Frederick  Weissenfels  in  the  Chair. 

1.  Resolved,  that  the  Badge  of  Distinction  to  be  worn  at  the  Reception  of 
the  Governor,  on  his  entrance  in  this  City,  be  a  Union  Cockade  of  Black 
and  White  Ribbon,  worn  on  the  left  breast,  and  a  Laurel  in  the  Hat. 


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The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


2.  Resolved,  that  the  Place  of  meeting  be  at  the  Bulls-Head  Tavern,  now 
kept  by  Mrs.  Berien,  on  Saturday  next,  at  9  o'clock,  a.  m. 

3.  Resolved,  that  if  it  appear  eligible,  his  Excellency  Governor  Clinton,  and 
his  Excellency  General  Washington,  (should  he  accompany  the  Gover- 
nor) shall  be  received  by  the  citizens,  drawn  up  in  the  form  of  a  Square, 
and  in  that  manner  conducted  to  his  Quarters. 

4.  Resolved,  that  the  Field  and  Other  Officers  who  now  serve,  or  hereto- 
fore have  served  in  the  Continental  Army,  be  requested  to  form  them- 
selves on  the  Flanks  of  the  Square,  in  the  conducting  of  his  Excellency. 

5.  Resolved,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Broome,  M.  Henry  A.  Renevene,  Captain 
Jeremiah  Wool,  Thomas  Randall,  Patrick  Dennis,  Messrs.  Francis  Van 
Dyck,  Henry  Kipp,  William  Gilbert,  Sa.  Sen.  Peter  Bryant,  Ephraim 
Brasher,  William  Gilbert  Junior,  Thomas  Tucker,  and  George  January, 
Thirteen  in  number,  be  a  committee  for  the  purpose  of  conducting  the 
Procession. 

6.  Resolved,  that  the  Committee  do  meet  to-morrow,  at  1 1  o'clock,  a.  m.,  at 
the  Coffee  House ;  and  that  Captain  Randall  and  Captain  Dennis  notify 
the  Members  thereof. 

7.  Resolved,  that  if  the  whole  of  the  Committee  should  not  be  present  The 
attending  members  be  authorized  to  appoint  others  in  their  place. 

8.  Resolved,  that  Mr.  James  McKinney  be  requested  to  furnish  the  Laurels 
and  deposit  them  at  the  Bulls-Head. 

9.  Resolved,  that  Mr.  Daniel  Green  be  requested  to  carry  the  colors  of  the 

United  States  on  the  occasion." 

The  Independent  New  York  Gazette. 
Saturday,  November  22nd,  1783. 

"At  a  Meeting  of  a  number  of  the  American  Army,  held  at  the  Request  of 
the  Exiled  Inhabitants  of  the  City  of  New  York,  for  the  purpose  of  adopting  a 
Mode  to  receive  his  Excellency  Governor  Clinton,  and  his  Excellency  General 
Washington,  on  their  entrance  in  this  city.  It  is  proposed,  that  all  the  Officers  of 
the  Line  and  Staff,  who  are  now  or  may  be  in  Town  meet  at  Mr.  Cape's  Tavern, 
at  nine  o'clock  to-morrow  morning,  and  march  in  column  to  the  Bulls-Head,  in 
the  Bowery  Lane.  On  the  arrival  of  their  Excellencies,  the  officers  will  wheel 
by  Platoons,  and  form  a  column  in  the  Rear  of  the  American  advanced  Guard, 
and  in  Front  of  the  Governor  and  General.  The  citizens  at  the  same  Time  will 
march  by  Files  on  each  Flank  of  Their  Excellencies,  and  form  a  column  in  the 
Rear.   Colonel  Weissenfels  is  requested  to  lead  a  column  of  American  Officers." 

Saturday,  November  29th,  1783. 
The  Independent  New  York  Gazette. 

"Last  Tuesday  Morning  the  American  troops  marched  from  Harlem  to  Bow- 
ery-Lane. They  remained  there  until  about  one  o'clock,  when  the  British  troops 
left  the  posts  in  the  Bowery,  and  the  American  troops  marched  into,  and  took 
possession  of  the  city,  in  the  following  order,  viz : 

1.  A  Corps  of  Dragoons. 

2.  Advanced  Guard  of  Light  Infantry. 

3.  A  Corps  of  Artillery. 

4.  Battalion  of  Massachusetts  Troops. 

5.  Rear  Guard. 


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31 


"After  the  Troops  had  taken  possession  of  the  city,  the  General  and  Governor 
made  their  Public  Entry  in  the  following  manner: 

1.  Their  Excellencies  the  General  and  Governor  with  their  suits  on  horse- 
back. 

2.  The  Lieutenant  Governor,  and  members  of  the  Council,  for  the  tempo- 
rary Government  of  the  Southern  District,  four  abreast. 

3.  Major  General  Knox,  and  the  officers  of  the  Army,  eight  abreast. 

4.  Citizens  on  Horseback,  eight  abreast. 

5.  The  Speaker  of  the  Assembly,  and  citizens  on  foot,  eight  abreast. 

6.  Their  Excellencies  the  Governor  and  Commander  in  Chief  were  escorted 
by  a  body  of  Westchester  Light  Horse,  under  the  command  of  Captain 
Delaran.  The  Procession  proceeded  down  Queen  street  and  through 
Broadway  to  Capes  Tavern.  The  Governor  gave  a  public  Dinner  at 
Fraunces  Tavern,  at  which  the  Commander  in  Chief  and  other  General 
Officers  were  present.  After  dinner  the  following  Toasts  were  drank  by 
the  Company. 

1.  The  United  States  of  America. 

2.  His  Most  Christian  Majesty. 

3.  The  United  Netherlands. 

4.  The  King  of  Sweden. 

5.  The  American  Army. 

6.  The  Fleet  and  Armies  of  France,  which  were  served  in  America. 

7.  The  Memory  of  those  heroes  who  have  fallen  for  our  Freedom. 

8.  May  our  Country  be  grateful  to  our  Military  Children. 

9.  May  Justice  support,  what  courage  has  gained. 

10.  The  Vindicators  of  the  Rights  of  Mankind  in  Every  Quarter  of  the 
Globe. 

11.  May  America  be  an  Asylum  to  the  Persecuted  on  the  Earth. 

12.  May  a  close  Union  of  the  States  guard  the  Temple  they  have  raised  to 
Liberty. 

13.  May  the  Remembrance  of  This  Day  be  a  lesson  to  the  Princes." 

"The  arrangement  and  whole  conduct  of  This  March,  with  the  tranquillity 
which  succeeded  it,  through  the  day  and  night,  was  admirable ;  and  the  grateful 
citizens  will  ever  feel  the  most  affectionate  impression,  from  that  elegant  and 
efficient  disposition  which  prevailed  through  the  whole  event."— The  Independent 
New  York  Gazette. 

"Sir:  "New  York,  December  4th,  1783. 

"I  have  the  honour  to  transmit  you  the  following  copy  of  a  Letter  from 
Commander  in  Chief  to  Major  General  Knox,  who  requests  you  to  publish  it  to 
the  troops  under  your  command  in  the  Order  of  this  day. 

"I  am  Sir,  your  obedient  servant, 
"Hon.  Brigadier-General  H.  Jackson.  J.  Shaw,  A.D.C. 

"Sir:  "New  York,  3rd  December,  1783. 

"The  splendid  display  of  the  fireworks  last  evening  was  so  highly  satisfac- 
tory that  I  must  request  you  to  present  to  Captain  Price,  under  whose  directions 
they  were  prepared;  and  to  the  officers  who  assisted  him,  my  thanks  for  the 
great  skill  and  attention  shown  in  the  conduct  of  that  business." 

"Your  most  obedient  sen-ant, 
"Signed  Major  General  Knox."  G.  Washington. 


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Washington's  Farewell  to  His  Officers 
Long  Room  Fraunces  Tavern,  December  4th,  1783 


Washington's  Farewell  to  His  Officers. 

Rivington's  New  York  Gazette,  December  6th,  1783. 

"Last  Thursday  noon,  the  principal  officers  of  the  army  in  town  assembled  at 
Fraunces  Tavern,  to  take  a  final  leave  of  their  illustrious,  Gracious,  and  much 
loved  Commander,  General  Washington.  The  passions  of  human  nature  were 
never  more  tenderly  agitated  than  in  this  interesting  and  distressful  scene.  His 
Excellency  having  filled  a  glass  of  wine,  thus  addressed  his  brave  fellow  soldiers : 
'With  a  heart  full  of  love  and  gratitude,  I  now  take  leave  of  you ;  I  most  devotedly 
wish,  that  your  latter  days  may  be  as  prosperous  and  happy  as  your  former  ones 
have  been  gracious  and  honorable.' 

"The  words  produced  extreme  sensibility  on  both  sides,  they  were  answered 
by  warm  expressions  and  fervent  wishes,  from  the  Gentlemen  of  the  Army,  whose 
truly  patriotic  feelings,  it  is  not  in  our  power  to  convey  to  the  reader,  soon  after 
this  scene  was  closed.  His  Excellency  the  Governor,  the  Honourable,  the  Coun- 
cil and  citizens  of  the  first  distinctions,  waited  on  the  general  and  in  terms  most 
affectionate  took  their  leaves. 

"The  Corps  of  the  Light  Infantry  was  drawn  up  in  a  line,  the  Commander  in 
Chief,  about  two  o'clock,  passed  through  them,  on  his  way  to  Whitehall,  where 
he  embarked  in  his  barge  for  Powles  Hook.  He  is  attended  by  General  Le  Baron 
de  Steuben,  proposes  to  make  a  short  stay  at  Philadelphia,  will  thence  proceed 
to  Annapolis,  where  he  will  resign  his  Commission  of  General  of  the  American 
Armies  into  the  hands  of  the  Continental  Congress,  from  whom  it  was  derived." 


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33 


INAUGURATION  OF  GEORGE  WASHINGTON. 

As  First  President  of  the  United  States  under  the 
New  Constitution,  April  30th,  1789. 

Since  the  close  of  the  War  no  event  of  such  importance  had  occurred.  It 
was  the  launching  of  the  new  Government  and  the  first  President  chosen  by  the 
vote  of  the  people.  While  New  York  justly  celebrated  the  occasion  in  most 
fitting  manner,  historians  have  given  it  but  little  consideration  in  their  histories. 
While  occurrences  of  much  less  importance  have  had  pages  devoted  to  them. 


Washington's  Inauguration. 

Historians  Account. 

"As  he  touched  the  soil  of  New  York,  he  was  welcomed  by  the  two  Houses 
of  Congress,  by  the  Governor  of  the  State,  by  the  Magistrates  of  the  City,  by  its 
people,  and,  so  attended,  he  proceeded  on  foot  to  the  Modest  Mansion  lately  occu- 
pied by  the  presiding  officer  of  the  Confederate  Congress.  On  that  day  he  dined 
with  Clinton.  In  the  evening  the  city  was  illuminated.  On  the  Thirtieth,  the 
day  appointed  for  the  inauguration,  Washington  being  fifty-seven  years,  two 
months  and  eight  days  old,  was  ceremoniously  received  by  the  two  houses  in  the 
hall  of  the  Senate.  Stepping  out  to  the  middle  compartment,  on  a  balcony 
which  had  been  raised  in  front  of  it,  he  found  before  him  a  dense  throng,  extend- 
ing to  Broad  street  and  filling  Wall  street  to  Broadway.  All  were  hushed,  as 
Livingston,  the  chancellor  of  the  State,  administered  the  Oath  of  Office,  but 
when  he  cried,  'Long  Live  George  Washington,  President  of  the  United  States,' 
the  air  was  rent  with  huzzahs  which  were  repeated  as  Washington  bowed  to  the 
Multitude." — Bancroft,  page  470. 

"Washington's  first  inauguration  occurred  in  New  York,  April  30th,  1789, 
after  a  triumphal  journey  from  his  home  at  Mt.  Vernon,  Va.  The  oath  of  office 
was  administered  on  the  balcony  of  Federal  Hall  in  Wall  street,  the  populace 
shouting  its  approval  'Long  live  George  Washington,  President  of  the  United 
States.'  — Ashley,  page  210. 

April  30th,  on  the  balcony  of  Federal  Hall,  in  New  York  City,  the  oath  of 
office  was  administered.  Washington  then  read  his  inauguration  address  in  the 
presence  of  Congress  assembled,  went  to  St.  Paul's  Chapel  where  prayers  were 
offered.  Formal  addresses  were  presented  to  the  President  by  both  Houses  of 
Congress." — Sanford,  page  162. 

"It  was  not  until  April  30th,  1789,  that  George  Washington  took  the  oath  of 
Office,  as  first  President  of  the  United  States."— Channing,  page  230. 

"Not  until  the  30th  of  April  did  he  take  oath  of  office.  The  place  was  the 
Senate  Balcony,  of  Federal  Hall.     The  scene  was  an  impressive  one."— 

MCLOUGHLIN. 

"It  took  the  entire  month  of  April  for  the  Houses  to  organize  to  Count  the 
electoral  vote,  notify  Washington  formally  of  his  election,  and  witness  the  cere- 
mony of  his  inauguration  as  first  President  of  the  United  States,  April  ?oth  "— 
Muzzey,  page  186. 

"April  30th  Washington  was  inaugurated  with  great  state  and  solemnity."— 
West,  page  335. 


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"Washington  was  received  in  New  York  by  thousands  of  enthusiastic  people. 
On  April  30th,  1789,  he  was  solemnly  inaugurated  at  Federal  Hall,  on  Wall 
street,  where  he  took  the  oath  of  office  and  made  a  simple  and  earnest  speech." — 
Hart,  page  36. 

"The  President  took  the  Oath  of  Office  standing  on  the  balcony  of  a  building 
in  Front  of  Federal  Hall,  the  hall  where  Congress  met,  in  presence  of  an  im- 
mense Multitude.  There,  amidst  ringing  of  bells  and  firing  of  cannon,  a  great 
shout  went  up,  "Long  live  George  Washington,  President  of  the  United  States." 
— Montgomery,  page  196. 

Actual  Account. 
Washington's  Inauguration. 
The  New  York  Journal  and  Weekly  Register. 

Thursday,  April  23rd,  1789. 

"On  Monday  last,  arrived  in  this  city  amidst  the  acclamations  of  all  ranks 
of  citizens,  his  Excellency,  John  Adams,  Esq.,  Vice  President  of  the  United 
States.  The  cavalcade  which  escorted  his  Excellency  into  the  City  was  numerous, 
and  truly  respectable.  From  the  Connecticut  line  to  Kingsbridge,  he  was  at- 
tended by  the  Light  Horse  of  Westechester  county,  under  the  command  of  Major 
Pintard.  At  Kingsbridge  he  was  met  by  General  Malcolm  with  the  officers  of 
his  brigade  and  the  city  troops  of  horses,  commanded  by  Capt.  Stakes,  also  by 
officers  of  distinction.  Many  members  of  Congress  and  a  large  number  of  citi- 
zens in  carriages,  and  on  horseback.  On  passing  the  fort  a  federal  salute  was 
fired.  His  Excellency  alighted  at  the  house  of  the  Honorable  John  Jay,  Esq. 
A  committee  of  both  Houses  of  Congress,  appointed  for  that  purpose,  attended  to 
congratulate  his  Excellency  on  his  arrival."  (There  is  a  long  account  of  his 
taking  the  Chair  of  Office.) 

New  York  Journal,  April  16th,  1789. 

"A  superb  barge,  elegantly  decorated,  is  preparing  in  this  city  to  receive  that 
beloved  soldier  and  statesman  George  Washington,  Esq.,  at  Elizabeth  Town 
Point,  to  conduct  him  to  the  City.  She  will  be  rowed  by  12  pilots  under  the  su- 
perintendence of  Messrs.  Randell  and  Nicholson." 

New  York  Journal,  April  23rd,  1789. 

"This  day,  it  is  expected  his  Excellency  George  Washington  will  arrive,  on 
which  occasion  every  true  American  will  feel  the  twofold  emotions  of  gratitude 
and  respect." 

The  New  York  Gazette  and  Weekly  Register. 
April  30th,  1789. 

"The  following  arrangements  of  the  Fire  Works  to  be  exhibited  this  evening 
at  the  Fort  under  the  Direction  of  Colonel  Banman.  in  the  Honor  of  the  Day. 
There  were  fifty  pieces."  (There  was  such  a  crowd  in  the  city  the  following  ap- 
peared in  the  papers.) 

A  Caution,  April  30th. 

"This  being  the  day  on  which  our  illustrious  President  is  sworn  into  office, 
of  course  a  day  of  felicity  and  joy,  let  us  therefore,  in  order  to  prevent  any  disa- 
greeable consequences,  or  accident  that  may  arise  from  horses  and  carriages, 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


35 


request  our  fellow  citizens  to  dispense  with  them  in  the  evening  at  the  fireworks, 
we  having  on  a  similar  occasion,  some  time  since,  lost  a  worthy  and  respectable 
citizen  by  being  run  down  by  a  coach." 

New  York  Journal  and  Weekly  Register,  Thursday,  April  30,  1789. 

"It  is  impossible  to  do  justice  in  an  attempt  to  describe  the  scene  Exhibited 
on  his  Excellency's  approach  to  the  city.  Innumerable  multitudes  thronged  the 
streets,  the  wharves,  and  the  shipping,  awaiting  with  pleasing  anticipation  of  his 
arrival."  Then  follows  an  account  of  the  procession  which  escorted  him  to  his 
residence,  after  a  reception  at  the  Coffee  House.  "On  Saturday  the  Chamber  of 
Commerce  met  at  the  Coffee  House  about  half  after  11  o'clock,  in  consequence  of 
a  special  call  from  the  President  of  the  United  States,  from  hence  they  proceeded 
in  form  to  the  home  of  his  Excellency,  headed  by  John  Broome,  Theophylack 
Bache,  and  John  Murray,  Esqs." 

(Then  follows  the  account  of  the  call  with  address  made  by  the  President 
and  Mr.  Broome.) 

Neiv  York  Journal  and  Weekly  Register. 

New  York,  May  7th. 

"Last  Thursday,  agreeable  to  the  resolution  of  both  houses  of  Congress,  the 
inauguration  of  the  President  of  the  United  States  was  solemnized.  At  nine 
o'clock,  a.  m.,  the  people  assembled  in  the  several  churches  to  implore  the  blessing 
of  Heaven  upon  the  New  Government,  its  favor  and  protection  to  the  President 
and  success  and  acceptance  to  his  administration.  About  twelve  o'clock  the  pro- 
cession moved  from  the  House  of  the  President  in  Cherry  street,  thorugh  Queen, 
Great  Dock  and  Broad  street,  to  Congress  Hall  in  the  Following  order: 

Col.  Lewis,  attended  by  two  officers. 

Captain  Stakes,  with  troop  of  Horse. 

Major  Van  Horn,  Grenadiers,  under  Captain  Harsin. 

German  Grenadiers  under  Captain  Scriba. 

Major  Bicker,  the  infantry  of  the  Brigade,  Major  Chrysrie,  Sheriff,  Civil 
Officers,  Committee  of  the  Senate.  Assistants.  The  President,  Assistants  and  His 
Suit. 

Committee  of  Representatives,  Hon.  Mr.  Jay,  Gen.  Knox,  Chancellor  Liv- 
ingston, and  Several  Gentlemen  of  Distinction. 

When  within  a  proper  distance  of  the  Hall  the  troops  formed  a  line  on  both 
sides  of  the  way.  the  President  passing  through,  was  conducted  into  the  Senate 
Chamber,  and  introduced  to  both  Houses  of  Congress.  Immediately  after,  accom- 
panied by  the  two  houses,  he  was  conducted  into  the  gallery,  adjoining  the  Senate 
Chamber  and  fronting  Broad  street,  where  in  the  presence  of  the  immense  con- 
course of  citizens,  the  oath  prescribed  by  the  constitution  was  administered  to 
him  by  the  Hon.  R.  R.  Livingston.  Esq..  Chancellor  of  the  State  of  New  York. 
The  Chancellor  then  proclaimed  him  the  President  of  the  United  States,  which 
was  followed  by  the  instant  discharge  of  13  cannon  and  loud  repeated  shouts, 
the  President  bowing  to  the  people ;  the  air  again  rang  with  their  acclamations ;  he 
then  retired  with  the  two  Houses  to  the  Senate  Chambers  where  he  made  a 
speech,  which  find  2nd  page.  3rd  column  of  this  paper.  The  President,  accom- 
panied by  the  Vice-President,  the  speaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives,  and 
both  houses  of  Congress  then  went  to  St.  Paul's  Chapel,  where  divine  service 
was  performed  by  the  Right  Rev.  D.  Provost.  Bishop  of  the  Episcopal  Church  in 
this  state,  and  Chaplain  to  the  Senate. 


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"The  transparent  paintings,  exhibited  in  various  parts  of  the  city,  in  the 
evening,  were  equal  at  least,  to  anything  of  the  kind  ever  before  seen  in  America. 
That  displayed  before  the  fort  at  the  bottom  of  Broadway,  did  great  honor  to  its 
inventors  and  executors,  for  the  ingenuity  of  the  design,  and  goodness  of  the 
workmanship,  it  was  finely  lighted  and  advantageously  situated.  The  virtues, 
Fortitude,  Justice,  and  Wisdom,  were  judiciously  applied;  of  the  first,  all  America 
has  had  the  fullest  evidence ;  and  with  respect  to  the  two  others,  who  does  not 
entertain  the  most  pleasing  anticipations.  His  Excellency,  Don,  Gardoquois' 
residence  next  caught  the  eye,  and  fixed  it  in  pleasing  contemplation ;  the 
'Toute  en  semble'  have  formed  a  most  brilliant  part  the  figures  well  fancied ;  the 
Gracis  suggested  the  best  ideas:  and  the  pleasing  variety  of  Emblems,  flowers, 
shrubbery,  arches,  and  above  all,  the  moving  Pictures  that  figured  in  the  win- 
dows or  as  it  were  in  the  background,  by  fixing  the  transparencies  between  the 
windows  afforded  a  new,  animated,  and  enchanting  spectacles.  The  residence  of 
his  Excellency  Count  Monstier,  was  illuminated  in  a  style  of  novel  elegance. 
The  splendid  bordering  of  lamps  round  the  windows,  doors,  etc.,  with  the  fancy 
piece  in  each  window,  and,  above  all,  the  large  designs  in  front,  did  great  honor 
to  the  taste  and  sentiment  of  the  inventors.  The  portrait  of  General  Washington 
exhibited  in  Broad  street  was  extremely  well  executed.  There  was  an  excellent 
transparency  also  shown  at  the  Theatre  and  at  the  corner  near  the  Fly  Market. 
The  illumination  of  the  Congress  hall  was  among  the  most  agreeable  of  the  Ex- 
hibitions of  the  evening  and  the  ship  'Carolina,'  formed  a  beautiful  pyramid  of 
stars ;  the  evening  was  fine.  The  company  innumerable.  Every  one  appeared  to 
enjoy  the  scene  and  no  accident  cast  the  smallest  cloud  upon  the  retrospect. 

"On  the  morning  of  first  inst.  the  President  received  the  compliments  of  the 
Vice  President,  the  Governor  of  the  State,  the  principal  officers  of  the  different 
departments ;  the  foreign  ministers  and  also  a  great  number  of  other  persons  of 
distinction.  We  are  informed  that  the  President  has  assigned  every  Tuesday  and 
Friday,  between  the  hours  of  two  and  three  for  receiving  visits ;  and  that  visits 
of  compliment  on  other  days,  and  particularly  on  Sundays,  will  not  be  agreeable 
to  him.  The  President  on  this  day  of  his  inauguration  appeared  dressed  in  a 
complete  suit  of  homespun  clothes ;  but  the  cloth  was  of  so  fine  a  fabric,  and  so 
handsomely  finished  that  it  was  universally  mistaken  for  a  foreign  manufactured 
superfine  cloth.  The  Vice-  President  appeared  also  in  a  suit  of  American  manu- 
facture and  several  members  of  both  Houses  are  distinguished  by  the  same 
token  of  attention  to  the  manufacturing  interests  of  their  country." 


A  Historian's  Idea  of  New  York. 
From  History  of  the  American  Nation. 

By  Andrew  C.  McLoughlin. 
Professor  of  American  History  in  the  University  of  Michigan. 

Having  devoted  about  ten  pages  eulogizing  New  England  says:  Page  161. 
"In  New  York  was  King's  College,  established  about  the  middle  of  the  Century. 
It  was  not  largely  attended  and  did  not  materially  effect  the  ideals  of  the  Colony. 
The  lower  schools  throughout  the  colony  were  neither  good  nor  plentiful.  In 
New  Jersey,  thanks  to  the  large  New  England  element  there,  a  few  good  schools 
were  found." 

The  New  York  newspapers  of  a  contemporary  date  give  very  full  accounts 
of  King's  College  Commencements,  also  of  Erasmus  and  other  schools  for  both 
girls  and  boys.    Showing  the  deep  interest  our  citizens  took  in  the  Early  Educa- 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


37 


tion  of  their  children,  and  such  men  as  Jay,  Duane,  Hamilton,  Paine,  McDougall 
and  many  others  lead  us  to  believe  New  York  did  not  lack  for  proper  education 
as  in  the  New  York  Society  Library  were  "proper"  books  to  read. 


A  Few  Facts  Generally  Overlooked  by  Historians. 

The  Freedom  of  the  Press  was  first  established  through  the  trial  of  John 
Peter  Zenger,  publisher  of  the  "New  York  Weekly  Journal,"  August  4th,  1735. 

The  first  preconcerted  demonstration  against  the  Crown  occurred  July  10th, 
1764,  in  New  York.  "Four  fishermen  were  arrested  from  on  board  their  vessel 
and  carried  on  board  a  tender  from  Halifax,  belonging  to  one  of  his  Majesty's 
Ships  stationed  there.  On  the  nth,  when  the  Captain  of  the  tender  came  ashore 
in  his  barge,  a  mob  seized  the  boat  and  Captain,  who  publicly  declared  he  gave  no 
such  orders.  He  was  offered  no  personal  injuries,  was  taken  to  the  Coffee  House, 
(Southeast  corner  of  Wall  and  Water  streets.)  The  barge  was  dragged  through 
the  streets  to  the  middle  of  the  green,  in  the  fields,  (City  Hall  Park)  and  burned. 
The  Captain  wrote  an  order  and  the  fishermen  were  brought  ashore." 

October  31st,  1765.  "A  meeting  of  the  Merchants  was  held  at  Burns'  Coffee 
House,  where  they  organized  a  Non-Importation  Association.  The  Committee 
was  composed  of  the  most  active  members  of  the  Sons  of  Liberty." 

George  Bancroft,  Page  386,  Vol.  Ill,  says:  "New  York  alone  had  been 
true  to  its  engagements  and  its  imports  had  fallen  off  more  than  five  parts  in 
six." 

"The  first  blow  for  Liberty  was  December  14th,  1774.  The  Capture  of 
Fort  William  and  Mary,  at  New  Castle,  in  Portsmouth  harbor,  New  Hampshire. 
The  Colonists  captured  the  fort  and  with  it  ninety-seven  bags  of  powder,  and  one 
hundred  stands  of  arms.  They  were  later  used  at,  'Battle  of  Bunker  Hill.'  The 
Battle  of  Lexington  was  April  19th,  four  months  later.  Another  early  engage- 
ment, prior  to  July  4th,  1776,  was  the  battle  of  Moor's  Creek,  North  Carolina. 

February  27th,  1776.  "A  force  of  Colonists  under  Col.  Richard  Caswell, 
captured  after  a  short  engagement,  nine  hundred  prisoners,  (Highlanders)  two 
thousand  stand  of  arms  and  fifteen  hundred  pounds  sterling  in  gold." 

August  23rd,  1775.  "The  British  Ship  'Asia,'  during  the  night,  fired  upon  the 
Sons  of  Liberty  who  were  removing  some  cannon  from  the  battery.  The  fire 
was  returned,  resulting  in  killing  of  one  man  from  the  'Asia'  and  wounding  sev- 
eral Sons  of  Liberty.  An  eighteen  pound  ball  was  shot  into  the  roof  of  Fraun- 
ces  Tavern." 

Thomas  Pain's  pamphlet  "Common  Sense,"  was  no  doubt  one  of  the  most 
convincing  ever  writen  in  this  country.  Edition  after  Edition  were  published, 
and  was  read  throughout  England,  as  well  as  in  America.  George  Washington 
wrote  Joseph  Reed:  "The  sound  doctrine  and  unanswerable  reasoning  con- 
tained in  the  pamphlet,  'Common  Sense'  will  not  leave  numbers  at  a  loss  to  decide 
upon  the  propriety  of  separation. 

George  Washington  was  born  1732,  February  nth,  and  that  date  was  cele- 
brated until  1790.  Boston,  Philadelphia  and  other  cities  had  paid  their  honor  to 
his  Natal  day.  Through  oversight,  New  York  had  neglected  to  do  so.  The  ac- 
counts of  the  observance  of  February  nth  were  being  published  in  the  newspa- 
pers, much  to  the  chagrin  of  our  citizens.  The  Societv  of  Tammany  were  to 
hold  a  meeting  on  the  22nd  when  some  member  figured' February  nth,  old  cal- 
endar, was  the  22nd,  new  calendar  (the  calendar  changed  1752)  and  on  that  date 
did  due  honor  to  "the  day."  Since  which  time  February  22nd  has  been  the  ac- 
cepted date. 


38 


The  Lower  Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 


The  title  given  to  George  Washington  "First  President  of  the  United  States" 
is  a  misnomer,  and  not  adopted  until  after  the  inauguration  of  John  Adams. 
Just  when  is  not  known.  Washington  was  called  "The  President"  and  "Our 
President."  The  Proper  title  was,  First  President  of  the  United  States  under  the 
New  Constitution. 

On  return  of  the  "Exiles"  after  the  evacuation  of  New  York  many  were 
greatly  impoverished  and  "Moratorium"  being  unknown.  The  Debtors'  prison 
was  soon  filled  with  the  unfortunate.  What  remained  from  public  and  private 
banquets  was  sent  to  them.  On  Christmas  the  more  fortunate  sent  them  remem- 
brances. 

The  Chamber  of  Commerce  and  the  Marine  Society  are  about  the  same  age, 
being  organized  in  1769.  To  them  is  largely  due  our  Commercial  Supremacy,  as 
Philadelphia,  Boston  and  Charleston  were  at  one  time  larger  ports  of  entry.  By 
ottering  of  prizes  for  the  encouraging  of  industries,  the  adjustment  of  business 
differences,  the  regulation  of  charges  in  all  commercial  matters.  The  Chamber  of 
Commerce  had  acquired  a  reputation  for  the  highest  standard  of  Justice.  Gen. 
Washington,  almost  immediately  on  his  arrival  for  inauguration,  requested  them 
to  call  upon  him.  The  Marine  Society  was  organized  for  the  "relief  of  distressed 
shipmasters  or  their  widows  and  children."  This  was  soon  extended,  until  it  in- 
cluded all  matters  pertaining  to  the  port  of  New  York.  April  13th,  1789,  they 
had  built  a  barge  to  convey  Gen.  Washington  from  Elizabethtown  Point  to  New 
York,  for  his  inauguration,  it  was  rowed  by  Thirteen  Captains  with  Captain  Ran- 
dell  acting  as  Coxswain.  The  banner  of  the  Society,  carried  at  that  time,  is  still 
in  their  possession.    Gen.  Washington  was  a  member  of  the  Society. 

Historians  have  given  Philadelphia  and  other  cities  "The  Glory  of  the  finan- 
cial assistance"  given  our  government  during  its  many  trying  periods  overlooking 
that  by  the  Bank  of  New  York  and  the  Manhattan  Company.  Yet  in  1791,  when 
our  credit  was  at  almost  lowest  ebb,  its  securities  selling  at  about  25  cents  on  the 
dollar  the  Bank  of  New  York  came  to  its  assistance  and  bought  its  bonds.  Again 
in  1792,  with  a  loan  of  $200,000,  and  1795  of  $120,000  more.  The  state  being 
hard  pressed  for  money  the  bank  took  from  them  at  par  $1,300,000  in  Govern- 
ment Bonds  which  were  then  quoted  at  25  to  50%  discount,  on  many  other  oc- 
casions this  Bank  came  to  the  assistance  of  our  Federal  and  State  Governments. 

The  Manhattan  Company  organized  the  Merchants  Coffee  House,  in  1799, 
soon  entered  into  generous  competition  to  protect  the  credit  of  our  then  new  coun- 
try, and  yet  those  two  old  and  solid  financial  institutions  are  overlooked  by  His- 
torians. 

Historians  mention  but  few  of  the  following  societies,  yet  had  they  taken 
time  to  have  read  of  the  good  deeds  each  and  all  of  them  did  in  the  early  days  of 
our  Country,  and  so  contributed  to  its  building  into  a  great  Nation,  New  York 
would  to-day  feel  still  prouder  of  our  City  in  the  time  of  our  Great  Grandfathers. 


New  York  Marine  Society. 

New  York  Chamber  of  Commerce. 

New  York  Committee  on  Manufactures. 

New  York  Free  and  Accepted  Masons. 

Bank  of  New  York. 

Society  of  the  New  York  Hospital. 

St.  Andrews  Society. 

St.  George  Society. 

Society  of  the  Cincinnati. 

Society  Sons  of  St.  Patrick. 


New  York  Society  Library. 

Society  for  Relief  of  Distressed  Debtors. 

St.  Nicholas  Society. 

Society  of  Tammany,  Columbian  Order. 

New  York  Stock  Exchange. 

The  Wigs,  of  the  Episcopal  Church. 

The  Manhattan  Company. 

Columbia  University. 

The  New  York  University. 

The  Old  Churches  of  Our  City. 


New  York's  Commercial  Tercentenary,  1914 


39 


The  New  York 
Commercial  Tercentenary  Commission 

Incorporated  by  Chapter  313  of  the  Laws  of  1913  of  the  State  of  New  York  to  Celebrate 
in  1914  the  Three-Hundredth  Anniversary  of  the  Beginning  of 
the  Chartered  Commerce  of  New  York 


Honorary  Presidents 


His  Excellency  the  Governor  of  New  York  State 
Martin  H.  Glynn 


His  Honor  the  Mayor  of  New  York  City 
John  Purroy  Mitchei.i. 


President 

Gen.  Howard  Carroll,  41  Park  Row,  New  York 


1st  Presiding,  Hon.  Alton  B 
Louis  Annin  Ames 
Vincent  Astor 
August  Belmont 
Andrew  Carnegie,  LL.D. 
Hon.  Joseph  H.  Choate 
Hon.  George  B.  Cortelyou 
Hon.  Robert  W.  de  Forest 
George  J.  Gould 


Vice-Presidents 
Parker  2nd  Presiding,  George 

Clarence  H.  Mackay 
Hon.  Morgan  J.  O'Brien 
Hon.  N.  Taylor  Phillips 
Edward  P.  V.  Ritter 
John  D.  Rockfeller,  Jr. 
Col.  Henry  W.  Sackett 
Jacob  H.  Schiff 


F.  Kunz,  Ph.D., Sc. D. 
Isaac  N.  Seligman 
Hon.  Theodore  P.  Shont>i 
Hon.  R.  A.  C.  Smith 
James  Speyer 
Henry  R.  Towne 
Theodore  N.  Vail 
Arthur  Williams 
William  Ziegler,  Jr. 


Treasurer 
Messrs.  J.  P.  Morgan  &  Co. 


Secretary 
Edward  Hagaman  Hall,  L.H.D. 


Assistant  Secretary 
A.  E.  MacKinnon 


The  Lower 
Wall  Street  Business  Men's  Association 

ORGANIZED  1883 


L.  W.  Minlord.  Treaiurcr 
106  Wall  Sireei 

Vitt'Prtstdtnti 

Edwin  F.  Atkini 
Joseph  Cullman,  Jr. 
Edward  H.  Hall 
Anion  W.  Hard 
Henry  Hentz 
Adolph  Lewisohn 
Lomax  Liltlejohn 
George  H.  Macy 
Thomas  H  Messenger 
Edwin  H.  Peck 
James  H.  Post 
Claus  A.  Spreckels 
Charles  M.  Warnci 


Honorary  Preiijent 

Hon.  Sr.TH  Low.  President.  Chamber  ol  Commerce  ol  State  ol  New  York 
William  Bayne.  Jr  .  Preiideni 

Honorary  V  ice-Preiidentt 

Edward  E.  McCa!! 
Sons  of  St.  Patrick 
Frederick  De  Peyster  Foster 
New  York  Society  Library 
Herbert  L.  Griggs 
Bank  ol  New  York 
Charles  Evans  Hawthorne 
St.  Johns  Lodge  A.  Y.  M. 
Pierre  Jay 
Manhattan  Company 
George  Austin  Morrison 
St.  Andrews  Society  ol  the  Slate  of  New  York 
H.  G.  S.  Noble 
New  York  Stock  Exchange 
Charlea  A.  O'Donohue 
Tontine  Society 
Talbot  Olyphant 
Society  of  the  Cincinnati 

J.  W.  Proctor 
New  York  Marine  Society 


Abram  Wakemati,  Seeretait 
96  Water  Street 

Executive  Committet 
James  A.  Taylor.  Chairman 
William  H.  Bennett 
Lambert  V.  B.  Cameron 
Charles  Fox 
George  Hewlett 
Frank  C.  Lowry 
L.  W.  Minlord 
James  M.  Montgomery 
Benjamin  H.  Old 
Louis  Seligsberg 
Benjamin  F.  Simmons 
Abram  Wakcman 
Rosa  W.  Weir 


PBESS  of 

^Joseph  D.^ 


AVERY \ 


